Pyrido[4,3-b]indoles containing rigid moieties

ABSTRACT

This disclosure is directed to pyrido[4,3-b]indoles having rigid moieties. The compounds in one embodiment are pyrido[4,3-b]indoles having an unsaturated hydrocarbon moiety. The compounds in another embodiment are pyrido[4,3-b]indoles having a cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl or heterocyclyl moiety. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds are also provided, as are methods of using the compounds in a variety of therapeutic applications, including the treatment of a cognitive disorder, psychotic disorder, neurotransmitter-mediated disorder and/or a neuronal disorder.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/110,519 filed Oct. 31, 2008, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/173,960 filed Apr. 29, 2009 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/245,150 filed Sep. 23, 2009, the disclosures of each of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

STATEMENT OF RIGHTS TO INVENTIONS MADE UNDER FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Neurotransmitters such as histamine, serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine mediate a large number of processes in the central nervous system (CNS) as well as outside the CNS. Abnormal neurotransmitter levels are associated with a wide variety of diseases and conditions including, but not limited to, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's Disease, autism, Guillain-Barré syndrome, mild cognitive impairment, schizophrenia (such as cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia (CIAS), positive symptoms, disorganized symptoms, and negative symptoms of schizophrenia), anxiety, multiple sclerosis, stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, diabetic neuropathy, fibromyalgia, bipolar disorders, psychosis, depression, attention-deficit disorder (ADD), attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and a variety of allergic diseases. Compounds that modulate these neurotransmitters may be useful therapeutics.

Histamine receptors belong to the superfamily of G protein-coupled seven transmembrane proteins. G protein-coupled receptors constitute one of the major signal transduction systems in eukaryotic cells. Coding sequences for these receptors, in those regions believed to contribute to the agonist-antagonist binding site, are strongly conserved across mammalian species. Histamine receptors are found in most peripheral tissue and within the central nervous system. Compounds capable of modulating a histamine receptor may find use in therapy, e.g., histamine antagonists may find use as antihistamines.

Dimebon is a known anti-histamine drug that has also been characterized as a neuroprotective agent useful to treat, inter alia, neurodegenerative diseases. Dimebon has been shown to inhibit the death of brain cells (neurons) in preclinical models of Alzheimer's disease and Huntington's disease, making it a novel potential treatment for these and other neurodegenerative diseases. In addition, dimebon has been shown to improve the mitochondrial function of cells in the setting of cellular stress with very high potency. For example, dimebon treatment improved mitochondrial function and increased the number of surviving cells after treatment with the cell toxin ionomycin in a dose dependent fashion. Dimebon has also been shown to promote neurite outgrowth and neurogenesis, processes important in the formation of new and/or enhanced neuronal cell connections, and evidence of dimebon's potential for use in additional diseases or conditions. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,187,785 and 7,071,206 and PCT Patent Application Nos. PCT/US2004/041081, PCT/US2007/020483, PCT/US2006/039077, PCT/US2008/077090, PCT/US2007/020516, PCT/US2007/022645, PCT/US2007/002117, PCT/US2008/006667, PCT/US2007/024626, PCT/US2008/009357, PCT/US2007/024623 and PCT/US2008/008121. Hydrogenated pyrido[4,3-b]indoles and uses thereof have been disclosed in PCT Patent Application Nos. PCT/US2008/081390, PCT/US2009/032065 and PCT/US2009/038142. Hydrogenated pyrido[3,4-b]indoles and uses thereof have been described in PCT/US2009/038138. All references disclosed herein and throughout, such as publications, patents, patent applications and published patent applications, are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

Although dimebon holds great promise as a drug for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and/or diseases in which neurite outgrowth and/or neurogenesis may be implicated in therapy, there remains a need for new and alternative therapies for the treatment of such diseases or conditions. In addition, there remains a need for new and alternative antihistamine drugs, preferably ones in which side-effects such as drowsiness are reduced or eliminated. Compounds that exhibit enhanced and/or more desirable properties than dimebon (e.g., superior safety and efficacy) may find particular use in the treatment of at least those indications for which dimebon is believed to be advantageous. Further, compounds that exhibit a different therapeutic profile than dimebon as determined, e.g. by in vitro and/or in vivo assays, may find use in additional diseases and conditions.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Numerous compounds have been synthesized and tested in biochemical and cell-based assays as well as in in vivo studies.

Tetrahydropyrido[4,3-b]indoles are provided. Compositions and kits comprising the compounds are also provided, as are methods of using and making the compounds. The compounds provided herein may find use as new histamine receptor modulators, as well as modulators of other neurotransmitters. Compounds provided may also find use in treating neurodegenerative diseases. Compounds provided may also find use in treating diseases and/or conditions in which modulation of aminergic G protein-coupled receptors and/or neurite outgrowth may be implicated in therapy. Compounds disclosed herein may find use in the methods disclosed herein, including use in treating, preventing, delaying the onset and/or delaying the development of a cognitive disorder, psychotic disorder, neurotransmitter-mediated disorder and/or a neuronal disorder in an individual in need thereof, such as humans.

In one aspect, the invention embraces compounds of the formula (V):

or a salt or solvate thereof; wherein:

R¹ is H, hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, perhaloalkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl or carbonylalkylenealkoxy;

each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, nitro, substituted or unsubstituted amino, hydroxyl, alkoxy, acyloxy, acylamino, aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl or R^(3a) and R^(3b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is independently N, CH or CR⁴;

each m and q is independently 0 or 1;

each R⁴ is independently hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, carbonylalkylenealkoxy, alkylsulfonylamino or acyl;

each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c) and R^(8d) is independently H, hydroxyl, alkoxy, halo, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carboxy, carbonylalkoxy, or is taken together with a geminal R⁸ to form a moiety of the formula —OCH₂CH₂O—, or is taken together with the carbon to which it is attached and a geminal R⁸ to form a cycloalkyl moiety or a carbonyl moiety;

each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each R¹¹ and R¹² is independently is H, halo, alkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carboxy, or carbonylalkoxy and the

bond indicates the presence of either an E or Z double bond configuration; or R¹¹ and R¹² are taken together to form a bond; and

Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, alkoxy, acyloxy, substituted or unsubstituted amino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylalkoxy, cyano, alkynyl, carboxy, carbonylalkoxy or acylamino.

In one variation, the compound is of the formula (V) where X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b), Q, q, m, R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c), R^(8d), R¹¹ and R¹² are as defined for formula (V), provided that (i) when X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH and each R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a) and R^(10b) is hydrogen, at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than hydrogen and R¹¹ and R¹² are not taken together to form a bond; and (ii) the compound is other than Compound 87. In another variation, the compounds of the invention, and methods of using the compounds and administering the compounds as detailed herein, encompass any of the compounds of the formula (V), including Compound 87. In one aspect, compounds of the formula (V) are provided where q and m are both 0 and at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is a substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, such as methyl. In another aspect, compounds of the formula (V) are provided where q and m are both 0 and at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is a substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, such as methyl, and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, such as phenyl, or a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, such as pyridyl.

In one variation, compounds of the formula (V) are provided, where X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b), q, m, and Q are as defined for formula (V), each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c) and R^(8d) is independently H, hydroxyl, C₁-C₈ alkyl, or is taken together with the carbon to which it is attached and a geminal R⁸ to form a cycloalkyl moiety or a carbonyl moiety; R¹¹ is H, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl and the

bond indicates the presence of either an E or Z double bond configuration; and R¹² is H, halo, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₁-C₈ alkyl substituted with a carbonylalkoxy, carboxyl or acylamino moiety, C₂-C₈ alkenyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl.

In another aspect, the invention embraces compounds of the formula (II):

or a salt or solvate thereof; wherein:

R¹ is H, hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, perhaloalkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl or carbonylalkylenealkoxy;

each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, nitro, substituted or unsubstituted amino, hydroxyl, alkoxy, acyloxy, acylamino, aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl or R^(3a) and R^(3b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is independently N, CH or CR⁴;

each m and q is independently 0 or 1;

each R⁴ is independently hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, carbonylalkylenealkoxy, alkylsulfonylamino or acyl;

each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c) and R^(8d) is independently H, hydroxyl, alkoxy, halo, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, C₂-C₈ alkenyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carboxy, carbonylalkoxy, or is taken together with a geminal R⁸ to form a moiety of the formula —OCH₂CH₂O—, or is taken together with the carbon to which it is attached and a geminal R⁸ to form a cycloalkyl moiety or a carbonyl moiety;

each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each R^(11a) and R^(12a) is independently H, hydroxyl, halo, alkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carboxy, or carbonylalkoxy; or R^(11a) and R^(12a) may be taken together to represent a bond;

R^(11b) and R^(12b) are taken together with the carbon atoms to which they are attached to form a substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkenyl or substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl moiety; and

Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, alkoxy, acyloxy, substituted or unsubstituted amino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylalkoxy, cyano, alkynyl, carboxy, carbonylalkoxy or acylamino.

In one variation, the compound is of the formula (VII) where X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b), Q, q, m, R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c), R^(8d), R^(11a), R^(11b), R^(12a) and R^(12b) are as defined for formula (VII). In another variation, the compounds of the invention, and methods of using the compounds and administering the compounds as detailed herein, encompass any of the compounds of the formula (VII), including 2-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)cyclohexanol.

In one variation, compounds of the formula (VII) are provided, where X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, X¹⁰, R¹, R^(11b), R^(12b), q, m, and Q are as defined for formula (VII), each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety; each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(3a) and R^(3b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety; each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c) and R^(8d) is independently H, hydroxyl, C₁-C₈ alkyl, or is taken together with the carbon to which it is attached and a geminal R⁸ to form a cycloalkyl moiety or a carbonyl moiety; each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety; and each R^(11a) and R^(12a) is independently H, hydroxyl, or C₁-C₈ alkyl; or R^(11a) and R^(12a) are taken together to represent a bond.

The invention also includes all salts of compounds referred to herein, such as pharmaceutically acceptable salts. The invention also includes any or all of the stereochemical forms, including any enantiomeric or diastereomeric forms and geometric isomers of the compounds described, or mixtures thereof. Unless stereochemistry is explicitly indicated in a chemical structure or name, the structure or name is intended to embrace all possible stereoisomers, including geometric isomers, of a compound depicted. Unless olefin geometry is explicitly indicated, substituted olefinic bonds may be present as cis or trans or (Z) or (E) isomeric forms, or as mixtures thereof. In addition, where a specific stereochemical form is depicted, it is understood that other stereochemical forms are also embraced by the invention. For example, where only a Z form of a compound is specifically listed, it is understood that the E form of the compound is also embraced. All forms of the compounds are also embraced by the invention, such as crystalline or non-crystalline forms of the compounds. Compositions comprising a compound of the invention are also intended, such as a composition of substantially pure compound, including a specific stereochemical form, including a specific geometric isomer, thereof. Compositions comprising a mixture of compounds of the invention in any ratio are also embraced by the invention, including mixtures of two or more stereochemical forms of a compound of the invention in any ratio, such that racemic, non-racemic, enantio-enriched and scalemic mixtures of a compound are embraced, or mixtures thereof.

The invention is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of the invention and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient. Kits comprising a compound of the invention and instructions for use are also embraced by this invention.

In one aspect, compounds of the invention are used to treat, prevent, delay the onset and/or delay the development of any one or more of the following: cognitive disorders, psychotic disorders, neurotransmitter-mediated disorders and/or neuronal disorders in individuals in need thereof, such as humans. In one variation, compounds of the invention are used to treat, prevent, delay the onset and/or delay the development of diseases or conditions for which the modulation of an aminergic G protein-coupled receptor is believed to be or is beneficial. In one variation, compounds of the invention are used to treat, prevent, delay the onset and/or delay the development of any one or more of diseases or conditions for which neurite outgrowth and/or neurogenesis and/or neurotrophic effects are believed to be or are beneficial. In another variation, compounds of the invention are used to treat, prevent, delay the onset and/or delay the development of diseases or conditions for which the modulation of an aminergic G protein-coupled receptor and neurite outgrowth and/or neurogenesis and/or neurotrophic effects are believed to be or are beneficial. In one variation, the disease or condition is a cognitive disorder, psychotic disorder, neurotransmitter-mediated disorder and/or a neuronal disorder.

In another aspect, compounds of the invention are used to improve cognitive function and/or reduce psychotic effects in an individual, comprising administering to an individual in need thereof an amount of a compound described herein or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof effective to improve cognitive function and/or reduce psychotic effects.

In a further aspect, compounds of the invention are used to stimulate neurite outgrowth and/or promote neurogenesis and/or enhance neurotrophic effects in an individual comprising administering to an individual in need thereof an amount of a compound described herein or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof effective to stimulate neurite outgrowth and/or to promote neurogenesis and/or to enhance neurotrophic effects. Synapse loss is associated with a variety of neurodegenerative diseases and conditions including Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, stroke, head trauma and spinal cord injury. Compounds of the invention that stimulate neurite outgrowth may have a benefit in these settings.

In another aspect, compounds described herein are used to modulate an aminergic G protein-coupled receptor comprising administering to an individual in need thereof an amount of a compound described herein or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof effective to modulate an aminergic G protein-coupled receptor. In one variation, a compound of the invention modulates at least one of the following receptors: adrenergic receptor (e.g., α_(1D), α_(2A) and/or α_(2B)), serotonin receptor (e.g., 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT_(2C), 5-HT₆ and/or 5-HT₇), dopamine receptor (e.g., D_(2L)) and histamine receptor (e.g., H₁, H₂ and/or H₃). In another variation, at least two of the following receptors are modulated: adrenergic receptor (e.g., α_(1D), α_(2A) and/or α_(2B)), serotonin receptor (e.g., 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT_(2C), 5-HT₆ and/or 5-HT₇), dopamine receptor (e.g., D_(2L)) and histamine receptor (e.g., H₁, H₂ and/or H₃). In another variation, at least three of the following receptors are modulated: adrenergic receptor (e.g., α_(1D), α_(2A) and/or α_(2B)), serotonin receptor (e.g., 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT_(2C), 5-HT₆ and/or 5-HT₇), dopamine receptor (e.g., D_(2L)) and histamine receptor (e.g., H₁, H₂ and/or H₃). In another variation, each of the following receptors is modulated: adrenergic receptor (e.g., α_(1D), α_(2A) and/or α_(2B)), serotonin receptor (e.g., 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT_(2C), 5-HT₆ and/or 5-HT₇), dopamine receptor (e.g., D_(2L)) and histamine receptor (e.g., H₁, H₂ and/or H₃). In another variation, at least one of the following receptors is modulated: α_(1D), α_(2A) and/or α_(2B), 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT_(2C), 5-HT₆, 5-HT₇, D_(2L), H₁, H₂ and H₃. In another variation, at least one of the following receptors is modulated: α_(1D), α_(2A) and/or α_(2B), 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT_(2C), 5-HT₆, 5-HT₇, D₂, H₁, H₂ and H₃. In another variation, at least two or three or four or five or six or seven or eight or nine or ten or eleven of the following receptors are modulated: α_(1D), α_(2A) and/or α_(2B), 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT_(2C), 5-HT₆, 5-HT₇, D_(2L), H₁, H₂ and H₃. In another variation, at least two or three or four or five or six or seven or eight or nine or ten or eleven of the following receptors are modulated: α_(1D), α_(2A) and/or α_(2B), 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT_(2C), 5-HT₆, 5-HT₇, D₂, H₁, H₂ and H₃. In a particular variation, at least dopamine receptor D₂ is modulated. In still another variation, at least dopamine receptor D_(2L) is modulated. In another particular variation, at least dopamine receptor D₂ and serotonin receptor 5-HT_(2A) are modulated. In another particular variation, at least dopamine receptor D_(2L) and serotonin receptor 5-HT_(2A) are modulated. In a further particular variation, at least adrenergic receptors α_(1D), α_(2A), α_(2B) and serotonin receptor 5-HT₆ are modulated. In another particular variation, at least adrenergic receptors α_(1D), α_(2A), α_(2B), serotonin receptor 5-HT₆ and one or more of serotonin receptor 5-HT₇, 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT_(2C) and histamine receptor H₁ and H₂ are modulated. In a further particular variation, histamine receptor H₁ is modulated. In another variation, compounds of the invention exhibit any receptor modulation activity detailed herein and further stimulate neurite outgrowth and/or neurogenesis and/or enhance neurotrophic effects. In one variation, compounds detailed herein inhibit binding of a ligand to histamine receptor H₁ and/or H₂ by less than about 80% as determined by a suitable assay known in the art such as the assays described herein. In another variation, binding of a ligand to histamine receptor H₁ and/or H₂ is inhibited by less than about any of 75%, 70%, 65%, 60%, 55%, or 50% as determined by a suitable assay known in the art such as the assays described herein. In a further variation, compounds detailed herein: (a) inhibit binding of a ligand to histamine receptor H₁ and/or H₂ by less than about 80% (which can in different variations be less than about any of 75%, 70%, 65%, 60%, 55%, or 50%) as determined by a suitable assay known in the art such as the assays described herein and (b) inhibit binding of a ligand to dopamine receptor D_(2L) by greater than about any of 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 100% or between about 85% and about 95% or between about 90% and about 100%, as determined in a suitable assay known in the art such as the assays described herein. In a further variation, compounds detailed herein: (a) inhibit binding of a ligand to histamine receptor H₁ and/or H₂ by less than about 80% (which can in different variations be less than about any of 75%, 70%, 65%, 60%, 55%, or 50%) as determined by a suitable assay known in the art such as the assays described herein and (b) inhibit binding of a ligand to a dopamine receptor D₂ by greater than about any of 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 100% or between about 85% and about 95% or between about 90% and about 100%, as determined in a suitable assay known in the art such as the assays described herein.

A compound of the formula (V) is provided:

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein:

R¹ is H, hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, perhaloalkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl or carbonylalkylenealkoxy;

each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, nitro, substituted or unsubstituted amino, hydroxyl, alkoxy, acyloxy, acylamino, aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl or R^(3a) and R^(3b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is independently N, CH or CR⁴;

each m and q is independently 0 or 1;

each R⁴ is independently hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, carbonylalkoxy, thiol, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, carbonylalkylenealkoxy, alkylsulfonylamino or acyl;

each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c) and R^(8d) is independently H, hydroxyl, alkoxy, halo, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carboxy, carbonylalkoxy, or is taken together with a geminal R⁸ to form a moiety of the formula —OCH₂CH₂O—, or is taken together with the carbon to which it is attached and a geminal R⁸ to form a cycloalkyl moiety or a carbonyl moiety;

each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each R¹¹ and R¹² is independently H, halo, alkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carboxy, or carbonylalkoxy and the

bond indicates the presence of either an E or Z double bond configuration, or R¹¹ and R¹² are taken together to form a bond; and

Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, alkoxy, acyloxy, substituted or unsubstituted amino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylalkoxy, cyano, alkynyl, carboxy, carbonylalkoxy or acylamino;

provided that when X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH and each R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a) and R^(10b) is hydrogen, at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than hydrogen and R¹¹ and R¹² are not taken together to form a bond. In one aspect, m is 0 and q is 0. In another aspect, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ are CH or CR⁴. In a further aspect, at least one of X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is N. In one variation, two of X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ are N. In another variation, at least one of X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is CR⁴, such as when each R⁴ is independently halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl or a substituted or unsubstituted aryl. Q in one aspect is a substituted or unsubstituted pyridyl, phenyl, pyrimidinyl, pyrazinyl, imidazolyl, furanyl, pyrrolyl or thiophenyl group. In another aspect, R¹¹ is H or C₁-C₄ alkyl and R¹² is independently H, C₁-C₄ alkyl or C₁-C₄ perhaloalkyl.

Compound of formulae (1-b1) and (1-b2) are also provided:

or a salt or solvate thereof.

Compounds of the formula (VII) are also provided:

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein:

R¹ is H, hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, perhaloalkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl or carbonylalkylenealkoxy;

each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, nitro, substituted or unsubstituted amino, hydroxyl, alkoxy, acyloxy, acylamino, aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl or R^(3a) and R^(3b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is independently N, CH or CR⁴;

each m and q is independently 0 or 1;

each R⁴ is independently hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, carbonylalkylenealkoxy, alkylsulfonylamino or acyl;

each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c) and R^(8d) is independently H, hydroxyl, alkoxy, halo, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carboxy, carbonylalkoxy, or is taken together with a geminal R⁸ to form a moiety of the formula —OCH₂CH₂O—, or is taken together with the carbon to which it is attached and a geminal R⁸ to form a cycloalkyl moiety or a carbonyl moiety;

each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each R^(11a) and R^(12a) is independently H, hydroxyl, alkoxy, halo, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carboxy, or carbonylalkoxy; or R^(11a) and R^(12a) are taken together to represent a bond;

R^(11b) and R^(12b) are taken together with the carbon atoms to which they are attached to form a substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkenyl or substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl moiety; and

Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkenyl or substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, alkoxy, acyloxy, substituted or unsubstituted amino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylalkoxy, cyano, alkynyl, carboxy, carbonylalkoxy or acylamino.

Where applicable, in one aspect compounds of the formulae are provided where any one or more of the following apply: (i) m is 0 and q is 0; (ii) X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ are CH or CR⁴; (iii) at least one of X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is N; (iv) two of X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ are N; (v) at least one of X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is CR⁴; (vi) each R⁴ is independently halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl or a substituted or unsubstituted aryl; (vii) Q is a substituted or unsubstituted pyridyl, phenyl, pyrimidinyl, pyrazinyl, imidazolyl, furanyl, pyrrolyl or thiophenyl group; (viii) each R^(11a) and R^(12a) is independently H, C₁-C₄ alkyl, or C₁-C₄ perhaloalkyl; (ix) R^(11b) and R^(12b) are taken together with the carbon atoms to which they are attached to form an optionally substituted cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl or cyclohexyl ring; (x) R^(11b) and R^(12b) are taken together with the carbon atoms to which they are attached to form an optionally substituted cyclopropyl ring; (xi) R^(11b) and R^(12b) are taken together with the carbon atoms to which they are attached to form an optionally substituted cyclopropenyl, cyclobutenyl, cyclopentenyl or cyclohexenyl ring; (xi) R^(11a) and R^(12a) are taken together to form a bond.

Compounds of the formula (I-E) are also provided:

wherein:

R¹ is H, hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, perhaloalkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl or carbonylalkylenealkoxy;

each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is independently N, CH or CR⁴;

each R⁴ is independently hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, carbonylalkylenealkoxy, alkylsulfonylamino or acyl; and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, alkoxy, aminoacyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, aminocarbonylalkoxy or acylamino or a salt or solvate thereof. In one aspect, X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH and X⁹ is CR⁴. In another aspect, X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH and X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, or substituted or unsubstituted amino. In a further aspect, R⁴ is CF₃, CH₃, F or Cl. In an additional aspect, R¹ is substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, or perhaloalkyl. In one variation, R¹ is methyl, 2-fluoroethyl, 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl, or 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-but-1-yl. In another variation, Q is substituted aryl or substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl. In one aspect, Q is substituted phenyl, or substituted or unsubstituted pyridyl, or pyrimidyl. In another aspect, Q is 4-fluorophenyl, 4-methoxyphenyl, 3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl, 4-methylcarbamoyl, 4-dimethylcarbamoyl, pyridin-3-yl, pyridin-4-yl, 6-methylpyridin-3-yl, 6-trifluoromethylpyridin-3-yl, or pyrimidin-4-yl. In a further aspect, the

bond indicates the presence of an E double bond. In one variation, the

bond indicates the presence of an Z double bond.

Compounds of the formula (J-1) are provided:

wherein; R¹ is methyl, 2-fluoroethyl, 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl, or 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-but-1-yl; R⁴ is CF₃, CH₃, F or Cl; R¹² is halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy; and Q is 4-fluorophenyl, 4-methoxyphenyl, 3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl, 4-methylcarbamoyl, 4-dimethylcarbamoyl, pyridin-3-yl, pyridin-4-yl, 6-methylpyridin-3-yl, 6-trifluoromethylpyridin-3-yl, or pyrimidin-4-yl; or a salt or solvate thereof. Method of treating a cognitive disorder, psychotic disorder, neurotransmitter-mediated disorder or a neuronal disorder in an individual are provided, comprising administering to an individual in need thereof an effective amount of compound as detailed herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Methods of modulating a histamine receptor in an individual are also provided comprising administering to an individual in need thereof a compound as detailed herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Use of a compound as detailed herein in the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of a cognitive disorder, psychotic disorder, neurotransmitter-mediated disorder or a neuronal disorder are also provided. A kit comprising a compound as detailed herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and instructions for use in the treatment of a cognitive disorder, psychotic disorder, neurotransmitter-mediated disorder or a neuronal disorder are provided. Methods of treating a cognitive disorder or a disorder characterized by causing at least one symptom associated with impaired cognition are provided, comprising administering to an individual in need thereof a low dose of a compound as detailed herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Method of treating (i) a psychotic disorder, (ii) a psychotic disorder in an individual who is also in need of improved cognition or (iii) a disorder characterized by causing at least one psychotic symptom and at least one symptom associated with impaired cognition are also embraced, comprising administering to an individual in need thereof a high dose of a compound as here detailed, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Use of a low dose of a compound as provided herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, in the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of a cognitive disorder or a disorder characterized by causing at least one symptom associated with impaired cognition is detailed herein. Also provided is use of a high dose of a compound as detailed herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof in the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of a (i) psychotic disorder, (ii) a psychotic disorder in an individual who is also in need of improved cognition or (iii) a disorder characterized by causing at least one psychotic symptom and at least one symptom associated with impaired cognition. A kit comprising a low dose of a compound as provided herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and instructions for achieving a procognitive effect in the treatment of a cognitive disorder or a disorder characterized by causing at least one symptom associated with impaired cognition are also provided. A kit comprising a high dose of a compound as detailed herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and instructions for achieving (i) a procognitive effect in the treatment of a cognitive disorder or a disorder characterized by causing at least one symptom associated with impaired cognition and (ii) an antipsychotic effect in the treatment of a psychotic disorder; a psychotic disorder in an individual who is also in need of improved cognition or a disorder characterized by causing at least one psychotic symptom and at least one symptom associated with impaired cognition is also embraced.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a graph of Total Distance Traveled (cm/5 min) vurses Time (min) pre- and post-injection, showing the results of Compound 88 (0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3, 10 and 30 mg/kg) and clozapine in a PCP Hyperactivity Mouse Model of Schizophrenia. Total distance traveled in the OF during the 90 minute test period are shown, with data presented as mean±SEM

FIG. 2 is a graph of Total Distance Traveled (cm/5 min) vurses Time (min) pre- and post-injection, showing the results of Compound 90 (0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3, 10 and 30 mg/kg) and clozapine in a PCP Hyperactivity Mouse Model of Schizophrenia. Total distance traveled in the OF during the 90 minute test period are shown, with data presented as mean±SEM

FIGS. 3A and 3B are graphs of time (in seconds) of object exploration during T2 for single administion of vehicle (p.o.), Compound 88 (0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3 and 10 mg/kg, p.o) or donepezil (1 mg/kg, i.p.) in a situation of natural forgetting in the rat object recognition model. All treatments were administered 30 minutes before T1. Time spent by rats exploring the novel and familiar objects during T2 is expressed as mean±SEM. In the figure, n is the number of rats per group; # is p<0.05; ## is p<0.01 and ### is p<0.001 versus novel object and ** is p<0.01 and *** is p<0.001 versus vehicle group.

FIGS. 4A and 4B are graphs of time (in seconds) of object exploration during T2 for single administion of vehicle (p.o.), Compound 90, or donepezil (1 mg/kg, i.p.) in a situation of natural forgetting in the rat object recognition model. FIG. 4A contains data for Compound 90 at doses 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3 and 10 mg/kg, p.o. FIG. 4B contains data for Compound 90 at doses 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1 and 3 mg/kg, p.o. All treatments were administered 30 minutes before T1. Time spent by rats exploring the novel and familiar objects during T2 is expressed as mean±SEM. In the figure, n is the number of rats per group; # is p<0.05; ## is p<0.01 and ### is p<0.001 versus novel object and * is p<0.01 and ** is p<0.001 versus vehicle group.

FIG. 5 is a graph of interaction time (seconds) for vehicle, clozapine and Compound 88 in a subchronic PCP-induced Social Interaction Deficit model, showing the effect of Compound 88 on PCP-induced disruption of social interaction. Data represent mean±SEM. In the figure, * is significantly different from PCP-vehicle, p<0.05.

FIG. 6 is a graph of interaction time (seconds) for vehicle, clozapine and Compound 90 in a subchronic PCP-induced Social Interaction Deficit model, showing the effect of Compound 90 on PCP-induced disruption of social interaction. Data represent mean±SEM. In the figure, * is significantly different from PCP-vehicle, p<0.05.

FIG. 7 is a graph of time spent holding the bar (seconds) at three time points (30 minutes, 1 hour and 3 hours) after administration of vehicle, haloperidol or Compound 88 (0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3, 10 and 30 mg/kg) in an extrapyramidal Syndrome (EPS) model catalepsy Test. The time the mice spent holding bar was averaged over the 3 trials at each time point. Data represent mean±SEM.

FIG. 8 is a graph of time spent holding the bar (seconds) at three time points (30 minutes, 1 hour and 3 hours) after administration of vehicle, haloperidol or Compound 90 (0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3, 10 and 30 mg/kg) in an extrapyramidal Syndrome (EPS) model catalepsy Test. The time the mice spent holding bar was averaged over the 3 trials at each time point. Data represent mean±SEM.

FIG. 9 is a graph depicting avoidance (% versus pretest) versus dose (mg/kg, p.o.) for compounds 83, 90 and 88 in a conditioned avoidance response model.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are graphs of Total Distance Traveled (cm/5 min) vurses Time (min) pre- and post-injection, showing the results of Compound 83 and clozapine in a PCP Hyperactivity Mouse Model of Schizophrenia. FIG. 10A depicts data for Compound 83 at doses 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3 and 10 mg/kg. FIG. 10B depicts data for Compound 83 at doses 0.1, 0.3, 1, 2 and 3 mg/kg. Total distance traveled in the OF during the 90 minute test period are shown, with data presented as mean±SEM.

FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C and 11D are graphs of total rearing pre- and post-injection versus treatment, showing the results of Compound 83 in a PCP Hyperactivity Mouse Model of Schizophrenia. Figure A depicts baseline rearing (prior to PCP) and Figure B depicts rearing post-PCP for Compound 83 at doses 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3 and 10 mg/kg. Figure C depicts baseline rearing (prior to PCP) and Figure D depicts rearing post-PCP for Compound 83 at doses 0.1, 0.3, 1, 2 and 3 mg/kg.

FIG. 12 is a graph of Total Distance Traveled (cm/5 min) vurses Time (min), showing the effect of Compound 83 (0.1, 0.3, 1, 3 and 10 mg/kg) in an amphetamine hyperactivity mouse model of schizophrenia.

FIGS. 13A and 13B are graphs of total rearing pre- and post-injection versus treatment, showing the results of Compound 83 in an amphetamine hyperactivity mouse model of schizophrenia. Figure A depicts baseline rearing (prior to amphetamine) and Figure B depicts rearing post-amphetamine for Compound 83 at doses 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3 and 10 mg/kg.

FIG. 14 is a graph of number of processes against treatment, showing the effect of Compound 83 (0.5, 5 and 50 nM), BDNF (50 ng/mL) and NGF (75 ng/mL) on neurite outgrowth in mixed cortical cultures. Results are depicted as mean+SD. In the figure, * is p<0.05, ** is p<0.01 and *** is p<0.001.

FIG. 15 is a graph of time spent holding the bar (seconds) at three time points (30 minutes, 1 hour and 3 hours) after administration of vehicle, haloperidol or Compound 83 (0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3, 10 and 30 mg/kg) in an extrapyramidal Syndrome (EPS) model catalepsy Test. The time the mice spent holding bar was averaged over the 3 trials at each time point. Data represent mean±SEM.

FIG. 16 is a graph of number of avoidance responses pre- and post-treatment, showing the number of avoidance responses observed before and after administration of vehicle (p.o.), Compound 83 (0.1, 0.3, 1, 3, 10 and 20 mg/kg, p.o.) or risperidone (0.3 mg/kg, s.c.) in a conditioned avoidance response test in the rat. Results are presented as mean±SEM with 12 animals per group. In the figure, ** is p<0.01 and *** is p<0.001 versus pre-treatment.

FIG. 17 is a graph of number of avoidance responses pre- and post-treatment, showing the number of avoidance responses observed before and after administration of vehicle (p.o.), Compound 88 (0.3, 1, 3, 6 and 10 mg/kg, p.o.) or risperidone (0.3 mg/kg, s.c.) in a conditioned avoidance response test in the rat. Results are presented as mean±SEM with 12 animals per group. In the figure, * is p<0.05, ** is p<0.01 and *** is p<0.001 versus pre-treatment.

FIG. 18 is a graph of number of avoidance responses pre- and post-treatment, showing the number of avoidance responses observed before and after administration of vehicle (p.o.), Compound 90 (0.3, 1, 2, 3 and 10 mg/kg, p.o.) or risperidone (0.3 mg/kg, s.c.) in a conditioned avoidance response test in the rat. Results are presented as mean±SEM with 11 animals per group. In the figure, ** is p<0.01 versus pre-treatment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Definitions

For use herein, unless clearly indicated otherwise, use of the terms “a”, “an” and the like refers to one or more.

As used herein, reference to “about” a value or parameter herein includes (and describes) embodiments that are directed to that value or parameter per se. For example, description referring to “about X” includes description of “X”.

As used herein, the term “aminergic G protein-coupled receptors” refers to a family of transmembrane proteins involved in cellular communication. Aminergic G protein coupled receptors are activated by biogenic amines and represent a subclass of the superfamily of G protein coupled receptors, which are structurally characterized by seven transmembrane helices. Aminergic G protein-coupled receptors include but are not limited to adrenergic receptors, serotonin receptors, dopamine receptors, histamine receptors and imidazoline receptors.

As used herein, the term “adrenergic receptor modulator” intends and encompasses a compound that binds to or inhibits binding of a ligand to an adrenergic receptor or reduces or eliminates or increases or enhances or mimics an activity of an adrenergic receptor. As such, an “adrenergic receptor modulator” encompasses both an adrenergic receptor antagonist and an adrenergic receptor agonist. In some aspects, the adrenergic receptor modulator binds to or inhibits binding to a ligand to an α1-adrenergic receptor (e.g., α_(1A), α_(1B) and/or α_(1D)) and/or a α₂-adrenergic receptor (e.g., α_(2A), α_(2B) and/or α_(2C)) and/or reduces or eliminates or increases or enhances or mimics an activity of a α₁-adrenergic receptor (e.g., α_(1A), α_(1B) and/or α_(1D)) and/or a α₂-adrenergic receptor (e.g., α_(2A), α_(2B) and/or α_(2C)) in a reversible or irreversible manner. In some aspects, the adrenergic receptor modulator inhibits binding of a ligand by at least about or about any one of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95% or 100% as determined in the assays described herein. In some aspects, the adrenergic receptor modulator reduces an activity of an adrenergic receptor by at least or about any of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95% or 100% as compared to the corresponding activity in the same subject prior to treatment with the adrenergic receptor modulator or compared to the corresponding activity in other subjects not receiving the adrenergic receptor modulator. In some aspects, the adrenergic receptor modulator enhances an activity of an adrenergic receptor by at least about or about any of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95% or 100 or 200% or 300% or 400% or 500% or more as compared to the corresponding activity in the same subject prior to treatment with the adrenergic receptor modulator or compared to the corresponding activity in other subjects not receiving the adrenergic receptor modulator. In some aspects, the adrenergic receptor modulator is capable of binding to the active site of an adrenergic receptor (e.g., a binding site for a ligand). In some embodiments, the adrenergic receptor modulator is capable of binding to an allosteric site of an adrenergic receptor.

As used herein, the term “dopamine receptor modulator” intends and encompasses a compound that binds to or inhibits binding of a ligand to a dopamine receptor or reduces or eliminates or increases or enhances or mimics an activity of a dopamine receptor. As such, a “dopamine receptor modulator” encompasses both a dopamine receptor antagonist and a dopamine receptor agonist. In some aspects, the dopamine receptor modulator binds to or inhibits binding of a ligand to a dopamine-1 (D₁) and/or a dopamine-2 (D₂) receptor or reduces or eliminates or increases or enhances or mimics an activity of a dopamine-1 (D₁) and/or a dopamine-2 (D₂) receptor in a reversible or irreversible manner. Dopamine D₂ receptors are divided into two categories, D_(2L) and D_(2S), which are formed from a single gene by differential splicing. D_(2L) receptors have a longer intracellular domain than D_(2S). In some embodiments, the dopamine receptor modulator inhibits binding of a ligand by at least about or about any one of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95% or 100% as determined in the assays described herein. In some embodiments, the dopamine receptor modulator reduces an activity of a dopamine receptor by at least about or about any of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95% or 100% as compared to the corresponding activity in the same subject prior to treatment with the dopamine receptor modulator or compared to the corresponding activity in other subjects not receiving the dopamine receptor modulator. In some embodiments, the dopamine receptor modulator enhances an activity of a dopamine receptor by at least about or about any of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95% or 100 or 200% or 300% or 400% or 500% or more as compared to the corresponding activity in the same subject prior to treatment with the dopamine receptor modulator or compared to the corresponding activity in other subjects not receiving the dopamine receptor modulator. In some embodiments, the dopamine receptor modulator is capable of binding to the active site of a dopamine receptor (e.g., a binding site for a ligand). In some embodiments, the dopamine receptor modulator is capable of binding to an allosteric site of a dopamine receptor.

As used herein, the term “serotonin receptor modulator” intends and encompasses a compound that binds to or inhibits binding of a ligand to a serotonin receptor or reduces or eliminates or increases or enhances or mimics an activity of a serotonin receptor. As such, a “serotonin receptor modulator” encompasses both a serotonin receptor antagonist and a serotonin receptor agonist. In some embodiments, the serotonin receptor modulator binds to or inhibits binding of a ligand to a 5-HT_(1A) and/or a 5-HT_(1B) and/or a 5-HT_(2A) and/or a 5-HT_(2B) and/or a 5-HT_(2C) and/or a 5-HT₃ and/or a 5-HT₄ and/or a 5-HT₆ and/or a 5-HT₇ receptor or reduces or eliminates or increases or enhances or mimics an activity of a 5-HT_(1A) and/or a 5-HT_(1B) and/or a 5-HT_(2A) and/or a 5-HT_(2B) and/or a 5-HT_(2C) and/or a 5-HT₃ and/or a 5-HT₄ and/or a 5-HT₆ and/or a 5-HT₇ receptor in a reversible or irreversible manner. In some embodiments, the serotonin receptor modulator inhibits binding of a ligand by at least about or about any one of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95% or 100% as determined in the assays described herein. In some embodiments, the serotonin receptor modulator reduces an activity of a serotonin receptor by at least about or about any of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95% or 100% as compared to the corresponding activity in the same subject prior to treatment with the serotonin receptor modulator or compared to the corresponding activity in other subjects not receiving the serotonin receptor modulator. In some embodiments, the serotonin receptor modulator enhances an activity of a serotonin receptor by at least about or about any of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95% or 100 or 200% or 300% or 400% or 500% or more as compared to the corresponding activity in the same subject prior to treatment with the serotonin receptor modulator or compared to the corresponding activity in other subjects not receiving the serotonin receptor modulator. In some embodiments, the serotonin receptor modulator is capable of binding to the active site of a serotonin receptor (e.g., a binding site for a ligand). In some embodiments, the serotonin receptor modulator is capable of binding to an allosteric site of a serotonin receptor.

As used herein, the term “histamine receptor modulator” intends and encompasses a compound that binds to or inhibits binding of a ligand to a histamine receptor or reduces or eliminates or increases or enhances or mimics an activity of a histamine receptor. As such, a “histamine receptor modulator” encompasses both a histamine receptor antagonist and a histamine receptor agonist. In some embodiments, the histamine receptor modulator binds to or inhibits binding of a ligand to a histamine H₁ and/or H₂ and/or H₃ receptor or reduces or eliminates or increases or enhances or mimics an activity of a histamine H₁ and/or H₂ and/or H₃ receptor in a reversible or irreversible manner. In some embodiments, the histamine receptor modulator inhibits binding of a ligand by at least about or about any one of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95% or 100% as determined in the assays described herein. In some embodiments, the histamine receptor modulator reduces an activity of a histamine receptor by at least about or about any of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95% or 100% as compared to the corresponding activity in the same subject prior to treatment with the histamine receptor modulator or compared to the corresponding activity in other subjects not receiving the histamine receptor modulator. In some embodiments, the histamine receptor modulator enhances an activity of a histamine receptor by at least about or about any of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95% or 100 or 200% or 300% or 400% or 500% or more as compared to the corresponding activity in the same subject prior to treatment with the histamine receptor modulator or compared to the corresponding activity in other subjects not receiving the histamine receptor modulator. In some embodiments, the histamine receptor modulator is capable of binding to the active site of a histamine receptor (e.g., a binding site for a ligand). In some embodiments, the histamine receptor modulator is capable of binding to an allosteric site of a histamine receptor.

Unless clearly indicated otherwise, “an individual” as used herein intends a mammal, including but not limited to a human, bovine, primate, equine, canine, feline, porcine, and ovine animals. Thus, the invention finds use in both human medicine and in the veterinary context, including use in agricultural animals and domestic pets. The individual may be a human who has been diagnosed with or is suspected of having a cognitive disorder, a psychotic disorder, a neurotransmitter-mediated disorder and/or a neuronal disorder. The individual may be a human who exhibits one or more symptoms associated with a cognitive disorder, a psychotic disorder, a neurotransmitter-mediated disorder and/or a neuronal disorder. The individual may be a human who has a mutated or abnormal gene associated with a cognitive disorder, a psychotic disorder, a neurotransmitter-mediated disorder and/or a neuronal disorder. The individual may be a human who is genetically or otherwise predisposed to developing a cognitive disorder, a psychotic disorder, a neurotransmitter-mediated disorder and/or a neuronal disorder.

As used herein, “treatment” or “treating” is an approach for obtaining a beneficial or desired result, such as a clinical result. For purposes of this invention, beneficial or desired clinical results include, but are not limited to, alleviation of a symptom and/or diminishment of the extent of a symptom and/or preventing a worsening of a symptom associated with a disease or condition. In one variation, beneficial or desired clinical results include, but are not limited to, alleviation of a symptom and/or diminishment of the extent of a symptom and/or preventing a worsening of a symptom associated with a cognitive disorder, a psychotic disorder, a neurotransmitter-mediated disorder and/or a neuronal disorder. Preferably, treatment of a disease or condition with a compound of the invention or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof is accompanied by no or fewer side effects than are associated with currently available therapies for the disease or condition and/or improves the quality of life of the individual.

As used herein, “delaying” development of a disease or condition means to defer, hinder, slow, retard, stabilize and/or postpone development of the disease or condition. This delay can be of varying lengths of time, depending on the history of the disease and/or individual being treated. As is evident to one skilled in the art, a sufficient or significant delay can, in effect, encompass prevention, in that the individual does not develop the disease or condition. For example, a method that “delays” development of Alzheimer's disease is a method that reduces probability of disease development in a given time frame and/or reduces extent of the disease in a given time frame, when compared to not using the method. Such comparisons are typically based on clinical studies, using a statistically significant number of subjects. For example, Alzheimer's disease development can be detected using standard clinical techniques, such as routine neurological examination, patient interview, neuroimaging, detecting alterations of levels of specific proteins in the serum or cerebrospinal fluid (e.g., amyloid peptides and Tau), computerized tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Similar techniques are known in the art for other diseases and conditions. Development may also refer to disease progression that may be initially undetectable and includes occurrence, recurrence and onset.

As used herein, an “at risk” individual is an individual who is at risk of developing a cognitive disorder, a psychotic disorder, a neurotransmitter-mediated disorder and/or a neuronal disorder that can be treated with a compound of the invention. An individual “at risk” may or may not have a detectable disease or condition, and may or may not have displayed detectable disease prior to the treatment methods described herein. “At risk” denotes that an individual has one or more so-called risk factors, which are measurable parameters that correlate with development of a disease or condition and are known in the art. An individual having one or more of these risk factors has a higher probability of developing the disease or condition than an individual without these risk factor(s). These risk factors include, but are not limited to, age, sex, race, diet, history of previous disease, presence of precursor disease, genetic (i.e., hereditary) considerations, and environmental exposure. For example, individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease include, e.g., those having relatives who have experienced this disease and those whose risk is determined by analysis of genetic or biochemical markers. Genetic markers of risk for Alzheimer's disease include mutations in the APP gene, particularly mutations at position 717 and positions 670 and 671 referred to as the Hardy and Swedish mutations, respectively (Hardy, Trends Neurosci., 20:154-9, 1997). Other markers of risk are mutations in the presenilin genes (e.g., PS1 or PS2), ApoE4 alleles, a family history of Alzheimer's disease, hypercholesterolemia and/or atherosclerosis. Other such factors are known in the art for other diseases and conditions.

As used herein, the term “pro-cognitive” includes but is not limited to an improvement of one or more mental processes such as memory, attention, perception and/or thinking, which may be assessed by methods known in the art.

As used herein, the term “neurotrophic” effects includes but is not limited to effects that enhance neuron function such as growth, survival and/or neurotransmitter synthesis.

As used herein, the term “cognitive disorders” refers to and intends diseases and conditions that are believed to involve or be associated with or do involve or are associated with progressive loss of structure and/or function of neurons, including death of neurons, and where a central feature of the disorder may be the impairment of cognition (e.g., memory, attention, perception and/or thinking). These disorders include pathogen-induced cognitive dysfunction, e.g. HIV associated cognitive dysfunction and Lyme disease associated cognitive dysfunction. Examples of cognitive disorders include Alzheimer's Disease, Huntington's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, schizophrenia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), autism, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI) and age-associated memory impairment (AAMI).

As used herein, the term “psychotic disorders” refers to and intends mental diseases or conditions that are believed to cause or do cause abnormal thinking and perceptions. Psychotic disorders are characterized by a loss of reality which may be accompanied by delusions, hallucinations (perceptions in a conscious and awake state in the absence of external stimuli which have qualities of real perception, in that they are vivid, substantial, and located in external objective space), personality changes and/or disorganized thinking. Other common symptoms include unusual or bizarre behavior, as well as difficulty with social interaction and impairment in carrying out the activities of daily living. Exemplary psychotic disorders are schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, psychosis, anxiety and depression.

As used herein, the term “neurotransmitter-mediated disorders” refers to and intends diseases or conditions that are believed to involve or be associated with or do involve or are associated with abnormal levels of neurotransmitters such as histamine, serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine or impaired function of aminergic G protein-coupled receptors. Exemplary neurotransmitter-mediated disorders include spinal cord injury, diabetic neuropathy, allergic diseases and diseases involving geroprotective activity such as age-associated hair loss (alopecia), age-associated weight loss and age-associated vision disturbances (cataracts). Abnormal neurotransmitter levels are associated with a wide variety of diseases and conditions including, but not limited, to Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's Disease, autism, Guillain-Barré syndrome, mild cognitive impairment, schizophrenia, anxiety, multiple sclerosis, stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, diabetic neuropathy, fibromyalgia, bipolar disorders, psychosis, depression and a variety of allergic diseases.

As used herein, the term “neuronal disorders” refers to and intends diseases or conditions that are believed to involve, or be associated with, or do involve or are associated with neuronal cell death and/or impaired neuronal function or decreased neuronal function. Exemplary neuronal indications include neurodegenerative diseases and disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson's disease, canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CCDS), Lewy body disease, Menkes disease, Wilson disease, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, Fahr disease, an acute or chronic disorder involving cerebral circulation, such as ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke or other cerebral hemorrhagic insult, age-associated memory impairment (AAMI), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), injury-related mild cognitive impairment (MCI), post-concussion syndrome, post-traumatic stress disorder, adjuvant chemotherapy, traumatic brain injury (TBI), neuronal death mediated ocular disorder, macular degeneration, age-related macular degeneration, autism, including autism spectrum disorder, Asperger syndrome, and Rett syndrome, an avulsion injury, a spinal cord injury, myasthenia gravis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, multiple sclerosis, diabetic neuropathy, fibromyalgia, neuropathy associated with spinal cord injury, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, psychosis, anxiety or depression.

As used herein, the term “neuron” represents a cell of ectodermal embryonic origin derived from any part of the nervous system of an animal. Neurons express well-characterized neuron-specific markers, including neurofilament proteins, NeuN (Neuronal Nuclei marker), MAP2, and class III tubulin. Included as neurons are, for example, hippocampal, cortical, midbrain dopaminergic, spinal motor, sensory, sympathetic, septal cholinergic, and cerebellar neurons.

As used herein, the term “neurite outgrowth” or “neurite activation” refers to the extension of existing neuronal processes (e.g., axons and dendrites) and the growth or sprouting of new neuronal processes (e.g., axons and dendrites). Neurite outgrowth or neurite activation may alter neural connectivity, resulting in the establishment of new synapses or the remodeling of existing synapses.

As used herein, the term “neurogenesis” refers to the generation of new nerve cells from undifferentiated neuronal progenitor cells, also known as multipotential neuronal stem cells. Neurogenesis actively produces new neurons, astrocytes, glia, Schwann cells, oligodendrocytes and/or other neural lineages. Much neurogenesis occurs early in human development, though it continues later in life, particularly in certain localized regions of the adult brain.

As used herein, the term “neural connectivity” refers to the number, type, and quality of connections (“synapses”) between neurons in an organism. Synapses form between neurons, between neurons and muscles (a “neuromuscular junction”), and between neurons and other biological structures, including internal organs, endocrine glands, and the like. Synapses are specialized structures by which neurons transmit chemical or electrical signals to each other and to non-neuronal cells, muscles, tissues, and organs. Compounds that affect neural connectivity may do so by establishing new synapses (e.g., by neurite outgrowth or neurite activation) or by altering or remodeling existing synapses. Synaptic remodeling refers to changes in the quality, intensity or type of signal transmitted at particular synapses.

As used herein, the term “neuropathy” refers to a disorder characterized by altered function and/or structure of motor, sensory, and autonomic neurons of the nervous system, initiated or caused by a primary lesion or other dysfunction of the nervous system. Patterns of peripheral neuropathy include polyneuropathy, mononeuropathy, mononeuritis multiplex and autonomic neuropathy. The most common form is (symmetrical) peripheral polyneuropathy, which mainly affects the feet and legs. A radiculopathy involves spinal nerve roots, but if peripheral nerves are also involved the term radiculoneuropathy is used. The form of neuropathy may be further broken down by cause, or the size of predominant fiber involvement, e.g. large fiber or small fiber peripheral neuropathy. Central neuropathic pain can occur in spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, and some strokes, as well as fibromyalgia. Neuropathy may be associated with varying combinations of weakness, autonomic changes and sensory changes. Loss of muscle bulk or fasciculations, a particular fine twitching of muscle may also be seen. Sensory symptoms encompass loss of sensation and “positive” phenomena including pain. Neuropathies are associated with a variety of disorders, including diabetes (e.g., diabetic neuropathy), fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, and herpes zoster infection, as well as with spinal cord injury and other types of nerve damage.

As used herein, the term “Alzheimer's disease” refers to a degenerative brain disorder characterized clinically by progressive memory deficits, confusion, behavioral problems, inability to care for oneself, gradual physical deterioration and, ultimately, death. Histologically, the disease is characterized by neuritic plaques, found primarily in the association cortex, limbic system and basal ganglia. The major constituent of these plaques is amyloid beta peptide (Aβ), which is the cleavage product of beta amyloid precursor protein (βAPP or APP). APP is a type I transmembrane glycoprotein that contains a large ectopic N-terminal domain, a transmembrane domain and a small cytoplasmic C-terminal tail. Alternative splicing of the transcript of the single APP gene on chromosome 21 results in several isoforms that differ in the number of amino acids. Aβ appears to have a central role in the neuropathology of Alzheimer's disease. Familial forms of the disease have been linked to mutations in APP and the presenilin genes (Tanzi et al., 1996, Neurobiol. Dis., 3:159-168; Hardy, 1996, Ann. Med., 28:255-258). Diseased-linked mutations in these genes result in increased production of the 42-amino acid form of Aβ, the predominant form found in amyloid plaques. Mitochondrial dysfunction has also been reported to be an important component of Alzheimer's disease (Bubber et al., Mitochondrial abnormalities in Alzheimer brain: Mechanistic Implications, Ann Neurol., 2005, 57(5), 695-703; Wang et al, Insights into amyloid-β-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in Alzheimer disease, Free Radical Biology & Medicine, 2007, 43, 1569-1573; Swerdlow et al., Mitochondria in Alzheimer's disease, Int. Rev. Neurobiol., 2002, 53, 341-385; and Reddy et al., Are mitochondria critical in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease?, Brain Res Rev. 2005, 49(3), 618-32). It has been proposed that mitochondrial dysfunction has a causal relationship with neuronal function (including neurotransmitter synthesis and secretion) and viability. Compounds which stabilize mitochondria may therefore have a beneficial impact on Alzheimer's patients.

As used herein, the term “Huntington's disease” refers to a fatal neurological disorder characterized clinically by symptoms such as involuntary movements, cognition impairment or loss of cognitive function and a wide spectrum of behavioral disorders. Common motor symptoms associated with Huntington's disease include chorea (involuntary writhing and spasming), clumsiness, and progressive loss of the abilities to walk, speak (e.g., exhibiting slurred speech) and swallow. Other symptoms of Huntington's disease can include cognitive symptoms such as loss of intellectual speed, attention and short-term memory and/or behavioral symptoms that can span the range of changes in personality, depression, irritability, emotional outbursts and apathy. Clinical symptoms typically appear in the fourth or fifth decade of life. Huntington's disease is a devastating and often protracted illness, with death usually occurring approximately 10-20 years after the onset of symptoms. Huntington's disease is inherited through a mutated or abnormal gene encoding an abnormal protein called the mutant huntingtin protein; the mutated huntingtin protein produces neuronal degeneration in many different regions of the brain. The degeneration focuses on neurons located in the basal ganglia, structures deep within the brain that control many important functions including coordinating movement, and on neurons on the outer surface of the brain or cortex, which controls thought, perception and memory.

“Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis” or “ALS” is used herein to denote a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects upper motor neurons (motor neurons in the brain) and/or lower motor neurons (motor neurons in the spinal cord) and results in motor neuron death. As used herein, the term “ALS” includes all of the classifications of ALS known in the art, including, but not limited to classical ALS (typically affecting both lower and upper motor neurons), Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS, typically affecting only the upper motor neurons), Progressive Bulbar Palsy (PBP or Bulbar Onset, a version of ALS that typically begins with difficulties swallowing, chewing and speaking), Progressive Muscular Atrophy (PMA, typically affecting only the lower motor neurons) and familial ALS (a genetic version of ALS).

The term “Parkinson's disease” as used herein refers to any medical condition wherein an individual experiences one or more symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease, such as without limitation one or more of the following symptoms: rest tremor, cogwheel rigidity, bradykinesia, postural reflex impairment, symptoms having good response to 1-dopa treatment, the absence of prominent oculomotor palsy, cerebellar or pyramidal signs, amyotrophy, dyspraxia and/or dysphasia. In a specific embodiment, the present invention is utilized for the treatment of a dopaminergic dysfunction-related disorder. In a specific embodiment, the individual with Parkinson's disease has a mutation or polymorphism in a synuclein, parkin or NURR1 nucleic acid that is associated with Parkinson's disease. In one embodiment, the individual with Parkinson's disease has defective or decreased expression of a nucleic acid or a mutation in a nucleic acid that regulates the development and/or survival of dopaminergic neurons.

As used herein, the term “canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome,” or “CCDS” refers to an age-related deterioration of mental function typified by multiple cognitive impairments that affect an afflicted canine's ability to function normally. The decline in cognitive ability that is associated with CCDS cannot be completely attributed to a general medical condition such as neoplasia, infection, sensory impairment, or organ failure. Diagnosis of CCDS in canines, such as dogs, is generally a diagnosis of exclusion, based on thorough behavior and medical histories and the presence of clinical symptoms of CCDS that are unrelated to other disease processes. Owner observation of age-related changes in behavior is a practical means used to detect the possible onset of CCDS in aging domestic dogs. A number of laboratory cognitive tasks may be used to help diagnose CCDS, while blood counts, chemistry panels and urinalysis can be used to rule out other underlying diseases that could mimic the clinical symptoms of CCDS. Symptoms of CCDS include memory loss, which in domestic dogs may be manifested by disorientation and/or confusion, decreased or altered interaction with family members and/or greeting behavior, changes in sleep-wake cycle, decreased activity level, and loss of house training or frequent, inappropriate elimination. A canine suffering from CCDS may exhibit one or more of the following clinical or behavioral symptoms: decreased appetite, decreased awareness of surroundings, decreased ability to recognize familiar places, people or other animals, decreased hearing, decreased ability to climb up and down stairs, decreased tolerance to being alone, development of compulsive behavior or repetitive behaviors or habits, circling, tremors or shaking, disorientation, decreased activity level, abnormal sleep wake cycles, loss of house training, decreased or altered responsiveness to family members, and decreased or altered greeting behavior. CCDS can dramatically affect the health and well-being of an afflicted canine. Moreover, the companionship offered by a pet with CCDS can become less rewarding as the severity of the disease increases and its symptoms become more severe.

As used herein, the term “age-associated memory impairment” or “AAMI” refers to a condition that may be identified as GDS stage 2 on the global deterioration scale (GDS) (Reisberg, et al. (1982) Am. J. Psychiatry 139: 1136-1139) which differentiates the aging process and progressive degenerative dementia in seven major stages. The first stage of the GDS is one in which individuals at any age have neither subjective complaints of cognitive impairment nor objective evidence of impairment. These GDS stage 1 individuals are considered normal. The second stage of the GDS applies to those generally elderly persons who complain of memory and cognitive functioning difficulties such as not recalling names as well as they could five or ten years previously or not recalling where they have placed things as well as they could five or ten years previously. These subjective complaints appear to be very common in otherwise normal elderly individuals. AAMI refers to persons in GDS stage 2, who may differ neurophysiologically from elderly persons who are normal and free of subjective complaints, i.e., GDS stage 1. For example, AAMI subjects have been found to have more electrophysiologic slowing on a computer analyzed EEG than GDS stage 1 elderly persons (Prichep, John, Ferris, Reisberg, et al. (1994) Neurobiol. Aging 15: 85-90).

As used herein, the term “mild cognitive impairment” or “MCI” refers to a type of cognitive disorder characterized by a more pronounced deterioration in cognitive functions than is typical for normal age-related decline. As a result, elderly or aged patients with MCI have greater than normal difficulty performing complex daily tasks and learning, but without the inability to perform normal social, everyday, and/or professional functions typical of patients with Alzheimer's disease, or other similar neurodegenerative disorders eventually resulting in dementia. MCI is characterized by subtle, clinically manifest deficits in cognition, memory, and functioning, amongst other impairments, which are not of sufficient magnitude to fulfill criteria for diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or other dementia. MCI also encompasses injury-related MCI, defined herein as cognitive impairment resulting from certain types of injury, such as nerve injury (i.e., battlefield injuries, including post-concussion syndrome, and the like), neurotoxic treatment (i.e., adjuvant chemotherapy resulting in “chemo brain” and the like), and tissue damage resulting from physical injury or other neurodegeneration, which is separate and distinct from mild cognitive impairment resulting from stroke, ischemia, hemorrhagic insult, blunt force trauma, and the like.

As used herein, the term “traumatic brain injury” or “TBI” refers to a brain injury caused by a sudden trauma, such as a blow or jolt or a penetrating head injury, which disrupts the function or damages the brain. Symptoms of TBI can range from mild, moderate to severe and can significantly affect many cognitive (deficits of language and communication, information processing, memory, and perceptual skills), physical (ambulation, balance, coordination, fine motor skills, strength, and endurance), and psychological skills.

“Neuronal death mediated ocular disease” intends an ocular disease in which death of the neuron is implicated in whole or in part. The disease may involve death of photoreceptors. The disease may involve retinal cell death. The disease may involve ocular nerve death by apoptosis. Particular neuronal death mediated ocular diseases include but are not limited to macular degeneration, glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa, congenital stationary night blindness (Oguchi disease), childhood onset severe retinal dystrophy, Leber congenital amaurosis, Bardet-Biedle syndrome, Usher syndrome, blindness from an optic neuropathy, Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy, color blindness and Hansen-Larson-Berg syndrome.

As used herein, the term “macular degeneration” includes all forms and classifications of macular degeneration known in the art, including, but not limited to diseases that are characterized by a progressive loss of central vision associated with abnormalities of Bruch's membrane, the choroid, the neural retina and/or the retinal pigment epithelium. The term thus encompasses disorders such as age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) as well as rarer, earlier-onset dystrophies that in some cases can be detected in the first decade of life. Other maculopathies include North Carolina macular dystrophy, Sorsby's fundus dystrophy, Stargardt's disease, pattern dystrophy, Best disease, and Malattia Leventinese.

As used herein, the term “autism” refers to a brain development disorder that impairs social interaction and communication and causes restricted and repetitive behavior, typically appearing during infancy or early childhood. The cognitive and behavioral defects are thought to result in part from altered neural connectivity. Autism encompasses related disorders sometimes referred to as “autism spectrum disorder,” as well as Asperger syndrome and Rett syndrome.

As used herein, the term “nerve injury” or “nerve damage” refers to physical damage to nerves, such as avulsion injury (i.e., where a nerve or nerves have been torn or ripped) or spinal cord injury (i.e., damage to white matter or myelinated fiber tracts that carry sensation and motor signals to and from the brain). Spinal cord injury can occur from many causes, including physical trauma (i.e., car accidents, sports injuries, and the like), tumors impinging on the spinal column, developmental disorders, such as spina bifida, and the like.

As used herein, the term “myasthenia gravis” or “MG” refers to a non-cognitive neuromuscular disorder caused by immune-mediated loss of acetylcholine receptors at neuromuscular junctions of skeletal muscle. Clinically, MG typically appears first as occasional muscle weakness in approximately two-thirds of patients, most commonly in the extraocular muscles. These initial symptoms eventually worsen, producing drooping eyelids (ptosis) and/or double vision (diplopia), often causing the patient to seek medical attention. Eventually, many patients develop general muscular weakness that may fluctuate weekly, daily, or even more frequently. Generalized MG often affects muscles that control facial expression, chewing, talking, swallowing, and breathing; before recent advances in treatment, respiratory failure was the most common cause of death.

As used herein, the term “Guillain-Barré syndrome” refers to a non-cognitive disorder in which the body's immune system attacks part of the peripheral nervous system. The first symptoms of this disorder include varying degrees of weakness or tingling sensations in the legs. In many instances the weakness and abnormal sensations spread to the arms and upper body. These symptoms can increase in intensity until certain muscles cannot be used at all and, when severe, the patient is almost totally paralyzed. In these cases the disorder is life threatening—potentially interfering with breathing and, at times, with blood pressure or heart rate—and is considered a medical emergency. Most patients, however, recover from even the most severe cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome, although some continue to have a certain degree of weakness.

As used herein, the term “multiple sclerosis” or “MS” refers to an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the central nervous system (CNS), leading to demyelination of neurons. It may cause numerous symptoms, many of which are non-cognitive, and often progresses to physical disability. MS affects the areas of the brain and spinal cord known as the white matter. White matter cells carry signals between the grey matter areas, where the processing is done, and the rest of the body. More specifically, MS destroys oligodendrocytes which are the cells responsible for creating and maintaining a fatty layer, known as the myelin sheath, which helps the neurons carry electrical signals. MS results in a thinning or complete loss of myelin and, less frequently, the cutting (transection) of the neuron's extensions or axons. When the myelin is lost, the neurons can no longer effectively conduct their electrical signals. Almost any neurological symptom can accompany the disease. MS takes several forms, with new symptoms occurring either in discrete attacks (relapsing forms) or slowly accumulating over time (progressive forms). Most people are first diagnosed with relapsing-remitting MS but develop secondary-progressive MS (SPMS) after a number of years. Between attacks, symptoms may go away completely, but permanent neurological problems often persist, especially as the disease advances.

As used herein, the term “schizophrenia” refers to a chronic, mental disorder characterized by one or more positive symptoms (e.g., delusions and hallucinations) and/or negative symptoms (e.g., blunted emotions and lack of interest) and/or disorganized symptoms (e.g., disorganized thinking and speech or disorganized perception and behavior). Schizophrenia as used herein includes all forms and classifications of schizophrenia known in the art, including, but not limited to catatonic type, hebephrenic type, disorganized type, paranoid type, residual type or undifferentiated type schizophrenia and deficit syndrome and/or those described in American Psychiatric Association: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Washington D.C., 2000 or in International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, or otherwise known to those of skill in the art.

“Cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia” or “CIAS” includes neuropsychological deficits in attention, working memory, verbal learning, and problem solving. These deficits are believed to be linked to impairment in functional status (e.g., social behavior, work performance, and activities of daily living).

As used herein “geroprotective activity” or “geroprotector” means a biological activity that slows down ageing and/or prolongs life and/or increases or improves the quality of life via a decrease in the amount and/or the level of intensity of pathologies or conditions that are not life-threatening but are associated with the aging process and which are typical for elderly people. Pathologies or conditions that are not life-threatening but are associated with the aging process include such pathologies or conditions as loss of sight (cataract), deterioration of the dermatohairy integument (alopecia), and an age-associated decrease in weight due to the death of muscular and/or fatty cells.

As used herein, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common child neuropsychiatric condition present in school-aged children, affecting about 5-8% of this population. ADHD refers to a chronic disorder that initially manifests in childhood and is characterized by hyperactivity, impulsivity, and/or inattention. ADHD is characterized by persistent patterns of inattention and/or impulsivity-hyperactivity that are much more extreme than is observed in individuals at the same developmental level or stage. There is considerable evidence, from family and twin studies, that ADHD has a significant genetic component. This disorder is thought to be due to an interaction of environmental and genetic factors. ADHD includes all known types of ADHD. For example, Diagnostic & Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) identifies three subtypes of ADHD: (1) ADHD, Combined Type which is characterized by both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms; 2. ADHD, Predominantly Inattentive Type which is characterized by inattention but not hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms; and 3. ADHD, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type which is characterized by Hyperactivity-impulsivity but not inattention symptoms.

As used herein, attention-deficit disorder (ADD) refers to a disorder in processing neural stimuli that is characterized by distractibility and impulsivity that can result in inability to control behavior and can impair an individual's social, academic, or occupational function and development. ADD may be diagnosed by known methods, which may include observing behavior and diagnostic interview techniques.

As used herein “allergic disease” refers to a disorder of the immune system which is characterized by excessive activation of mast cells and basophils and production of IgE immunoglobulins, resulting in an extreme inflammatory response. It represents a form of hypersensitivity to an environmental substance known as allergen and is an acquired disease. Common allergic reactions include eczema, hives, hay fever, asthma, food allergies, and reactions to the venom of stinging insects such as wasps and bees. Allergic reactions are accompanied by an excessive release of histamines, and can thus be treated with antihistaminic agents.

As used herein, by “combination therapy” is meant a therapy that includes two or more different compounds. Thus, in one aspect, a combination therapy comprising a compound detailed herein and anther compound is provided. In some variations, the combination therapy optionally includes one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers or excipients, non-pharmaceutically active compounds, and/or inert substances. In various embodiments, treatment with a combination therapy may result in an additive or even synergistic (e.g., greater than additive) result compared to administration of a single compound of the invention alone. In some embodiments, a lower amount of each compound is used as part of a combination therapy compared to the amount generally used for individual therapy. Preferably, the same or greater therapeutic benefit is achieved using a combination therapy than by using any of the individual compounds alone. In some embodiments, the same or greater therapeutic benefit is achieved using a smaller amount (e.g., a lower dose or a less frequent dosing schedule) of a compound in a combination therapy than the amount generally used for individual compound or therapy. Preferably, the use of a small amount of compound results in a reduction in the number, severity, frequency, and/or duration of one or more side-effects associated with the compound.

As used herein, the term “effective amount” intends such amount of a compound of the invention which in combination with its parameters of efficacy and toxicity, as well as based on the knowledge of the practicing specialist should be effective in a given therapeutic form. As is understood in the art, an effective amount may be in one or more doses, i.e., a single dose or multiple doses may be required to achieve the desired treatment endpoint. An effective amount may be considered in the context of administering one or more therapeutic agents, and a single agent may be considered to be given in an effective amount if, in conjunction with one or more other agents, a desirable or beneficial result may be or is achieved. Suitable doses of any of the co-administered compounds may optionally be lowered due to the combined action (e.g., additive or synergistic effects) of the compounds.

As used herein, “unit dosage form” refers to physically discrete units, suitable as unit dosages, each unit containing a predetermined quantity of active ingredient calculated to produce the desired therapeutic effect in association with the required pharmaceutical carrier. Unit dosage forms may contain a single or a combination therapy.

As used herein, the term “controlled release” refers to a drug-containing formulation or fraction thereof in which release of the drug is not immediate, i.e., with a “controlled release” formulation, administration does not result in immediate release of the drug into an absorption pool. The term encompasses depot formulations designed to gradually release the drug compound over an extended period of time. Controlled release formulations can include a wide variety of drug delivery systems, generally involving mixing the drug compound with carriers, polymers or other compounds having the desired release characteristics (e.g., pH—dependent or non-pH—dependent solubility, different degrees of water solubility, and the like) and formulating the mixture according to the desired route of delivery (e.g., coated capsules, implantable reservoirs, injectable solutions containing biodegradable capsules, and the like).

As used herein, by “pharmaceutically acceptable” or “pharmacologically acceptable” is meant a material that is not biologically or otherwise undesirable, e.g., the material may be incorporated into a pharmaceutical composition administered to a patient without causing any significant undesirable biological effects or interacting in a deleterious manner with any of the other components of the composition in which it is contained. Pharmaceutically acceptable carriers or excipients have preferably met the required standards of toxicological and manufacturing testing and/or are included on the Inactive Ingredient Guide prepared by the U.S. Food and Drug administration.

“Pharmaceutically acceptable salts” are those salts which retain at least some of the biological activity of the free (non-salt) compound and which can be administered as drugs or pharmaceuticals to an individual. A pharmaceutically acceptable salt intends ionic interactions and not a covalent bond. As such, an N-oxide is not considered a salt. Such salts, for example, include: (1) acid addition salts, formed with inorganic acids such as hydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, phosphoric acid, and the like; or formed with organic acids such as acetic acid, oxalic acid, propionic acid, succinic acid, maleic acid, tartaric acid and the like; (2) salts formed when an acidic proton present in the parent compound either is replaced by a metal ion, e.g., an alkali metal ion, an alkaline earth ion, or an aluminum ion; or coordinates with an organic base. Acceptable organic bases include ethanolamine, diethanolamine, triethanolamine and the like. Acceptable inorganic bases include aluminum hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, sodium hydroxide, and the like. Further examples of pharmaceutically acceptable salts include those listed in Berge et al., Pharmaceutical Salts, J. Pharm. Sci. 1977 January; 66(1):1-19. Pharmaceutically acceptable salts can be prepared in situ in the manufacturing process, or by separately reacting a purified compound of the invention in its free acid or base form with a suitable organic or inorganic base or acid, respectively, and isolating the salt thus formed during subsequent purification. It should be understood that a reference to a pharmaceutically acceptable salt includes the solvent addition forms or crystal forms thereof, particularly solvates or polymorphs. Solvates contain either stoichiometric or non-stoichiometric amounts of a solvent, and are often formed during the process of crystallization. Hydrates are formed when the solvent is water, or alcoholates are formed when the solvent is alcohol. Polymorphs include the different crystal packing arrangements of the same elemental composition of a compound. Polymorphs usually have different X-ray diffraction patterns, infrared spectra, melting points, density, hardness, crystal shape, optical and electrical properties, stability, and solubility. Various factors such as the recrystallization solvent, rate of crystallization, and storage temperature may cause a single crystal form to dominate.

The term “excipient” as used herein means an inert or inactive substance that may be used in the production of a drug or pharmaceutical, such as a tablet containing a compound of the invention as an active ingredient. Various substances may be embraced by the term excipient, including without limitation any substance used as a binder, disintegrant, coating, compression/encapsulation aid, cream or lotion, lubricant, solutions for parenteral administration, materials for chewable tablets, sweetener or flavoring, suspending/gelling agent, or wet granulation agent. Binders include, e.g., carbomers, povidone, xanthan gum, etc.; coatings include, e.g., cellulose acetate phthalate, ethylcellulose, gellan gum, maltodextrin, enteric coatings, etc.; compression/encapsulation aids include, e.g., calcium carbonate, dextrose, fructose dc (dc=“directly compressible”), honey dc, lactose (anhydrate or monohydrate; optionally in combination with aspartame, cellulose, or microcrystalline cellulose), starch dc, sucrose, etc.; disintegrants include, e.g., croscarmellose sodium, gellan gum, sodium starch glycolate, etc.; creams or lotions include, e.g., maltodextrin, carrageenans, etc.; lubricants include, e.g., magnesium stearate, stearic acid, sodium stearyl fumarate, etc.; materials for chewable tablets include, e.g., dextrose, fructose dc, lactose (monohydrate, optionally in combination with aspartame or cellulose), etc.; suspending/gelling agents include, e.g., carrageenan, sodium starch glycolate, xanthan gum, etc.; sweeteners include, e.g., aspartame, dextrose, fructose dc, sorbitol, sucrose dc, etc.; and wet granulation agents include, e.g., calcium carbonate, maltodextrin, microcrystalline cellulose, etc.

“Alkyl” refers to and includes saturated linear, branched, or cyclic univalent hydrocarbon structures and combinations thereof. Particular alkyl groups are those having 1 to 20 carbon atoms (a “C₁-C₂₀ alkyl”). More particular alkyl groups are those having 1 to 8 carbon atoms (a “C₁-C₈ alkyl”). When an alkyl residue having a specific number of carbons is named, all geometric isomers having that number of carbons are intended to be encompassed and described; thus, for example, “butyl” is meant to include n-butyl, sec-butyl, iso-butyl, tert-butyl and cyclobutyl; “propyl” includes n-propyl, iso-propyl and cyclopropyl. This term is exemplified by groups such as methyl, t-butyl, n-heptyl, octyl, cyclohexylmethyl, cyclopropyl and the like. Cycloalkyl is a subset of alkyl and can consist of one ring, such as cyclohexyl, or multiple rings, such as adamantyl. A cycloalkyl comprising more than one ring may be fused, spiro or bridged, or combinations thereof. A preferred cycloalkyl is a saturated cyclic hydrocarbon having from 3 to 13 annular carbon atoms. A more preferred cycloalkyl is a saturated cyclic hydrocarbon having from 3 to 8 annular carbon atoms (a “C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl”). Examples of cycloalkyl groups include adamantyl, decahydronaphthalenyl, cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl and the like.

“Alkylene” refers to the same residues as alkyl, but having bivalency. Examples of alkylene include methylene (—CH₂—), ethylene (—CH₂CH₂—), propylene (—CH₂CH₂CH₂—), butylene (—CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂—) and the like.

“Alkenyl” refers to an unsaturated hydrocarbon group having at least one site of olefinic unsaturation (i.e., having at least one moiety of the formula C═C) and preferably having from 2 to 10 carbon atoms and more preferably 2 to 8 carbon atoms. Examples of alkenyl include but are not limited to —CH₂—CH═CH—CH₃ and —CH₂—CH₂-cyclohexenyl, where the ethyl group of the latter example can be attached to the cyclohexenyl moiety at any available position on the ring. Cycloalkenyl is a subset of alkenyl and can consist of one ring, such as cyclohexyl, or multiple rings, such as norbornenyl. A more preferred cycloalkenyl is an unsaturated cyclic hydrocarbon having from 3 to 8 annular carbon atoms (a “C₃-C₈ cycloalkenyl”). Examples of cycloalkenyl groups include cyclopropenyl, cyclobutenyl, cyclopentenyl, cyclohexenyl and the like.

“Alkynyl” refers to an unsaturated hydrocarbon group having at least one site of acetylenic unsaturation (i.e., having at least one moiety of the formula C≡C) and preferably having from 2 to 10 carbon atoms and more preferably 2 to 8 carbon atoms and the like.

“Substituted alkyl” refers to an alkyl group having from 1 to 5 substituents including, but not limited to, substituents such as alkoxy, substituted alkoxy, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, acylamino, substituted or unsubstituted amino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aryl, substituted aryl, heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl, aryloxy, substituted aryloxy, cyano, halo, hydroxyl, nitro, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, oxo, carbonylalkylenealkoxy and the like.

“Substituted alkenyl” refers to alkenyl group having from 1 to 5 substituents including, but not limited to, substituents such as alkoxy, substituted alkoxy, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, acylamino, substituted or unsubstituted amino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aryl, substituted aryl, heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl, aryloxy, substituted aryloxy, cyano, halo, hydroxyl, nitro, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, oxo, carbonylalkylenealkoxy and the like.

“Substituted alkynyl” refers to alkynyl groups having from 1 to 5 substituents including, but not limited to, groups such as alkoxy, substituted alkoxy, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, acylamino, substituted or unsubstituted amino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aryl, substituted aryl, heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl, aryloxy, substituted aryloxy, cyano, halo, hydroxyl, nitro, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, oxo, carbonylalkylenealkoxy and the like.

“Acyl” refers to the groups H—C(O)—, alkyl-C(O)—, substituted alkyl-C(O)—, alkenyl-C(O)—, substituted alkenyl-C(O)—, cycloalkyl-C(O)—, substituted cycloalkyl-C(O)—, alkynyl-C(O)—, substituted alkynyl-C(O)—, aryl-C(O)—, substituted aryl-C(O)—, heteroaryl-C(O)—, substituted heteroaryl-C(O)—, heterocyclic-C(O)—, and substituted heterocyclic-C(O)—, wherein alkyl, substituted alkyl, alkenyl, substituted alkenyl, alkynyl, substituted alkynyl, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, aryl, substituted aryl, heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl, heterocyclic and substituted heterocyclic are as defined herein.

“Acyloxy” refers to the groups H—C(O)O—, alkyl-C(O)O—, substituted alkyl-C(O)O—, alkenyl-C(O)O—, substituted alkenyl-C(O)O—, alkynyl-C(O)O—, substituted alkynyl-C(O)O—, cycloalkyl-C(O)O—, substituted cycloalkyl-C(O)O—, aryl-C(O)O—, substituted aryl-C(O)O—, heteroaryl-C(O)O—, substituted heteroaryl-C(O)O—, heterocyclic-C(O)O—, and substituted heterocyclic-C(O)O—, wherein alkyl, substituted alkyl, alkenyl, substituted alkenyl, alkynyl, substituted alkynyl, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, aryl, substituted aryl, heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl, heterocyclic and substituted heterocyclic are as defined herein.

“Heterocycle”, “heterocyclic”, or “heterocyclyl” refers to a saturated or an unsaturated non-aromatic group having a single ring or multiple condensed rings, and having from 1 to 10 annular carbon atoms and from 1 to 4 annular heteroatoms, such as nitrogen, sulfur or oxygen, and the like. A heterocycle comprising more than one ring may be fused, spiro or bridged, or any combination thereof. In fused ring systems, one or more of the rings can be aryl or heteroaryl. A heterocycle having more than one ring where at least one ring is aromatic may be connected to the parent structure at either a non-aromatic ring position or at an aromatic ring position. In one variation, a heterocycle having more than one ring where at least one ring is aromatic is connected to the parent structure at a non-aromatic ring position.

“Substituted heterocyclic” or “substituted heterocyclyl” refers to a heterocycle group which is substituted with from 1 to 3 substituents including, but not limited to, substituents such as alkoxy, substituted alkoxy, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, acylamino, substituted or unsubstituted amino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aryl, substituted aryl, heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl, aryloxy, substituted aryloxy, cyano, halo, hydroxyl, nitro, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, oxo, carbonylalkylenealkoxy and the like. In one variation, a substituted heterocycle is a heterocycle substituted with an additional ring, wherein the additional ring may be aromatic or non-aromatic.

“Aryl” or “Ar” refers to an unsaturated aromatic carbocyclic group having a single ring (e.g., phenyl) or multiple condensed rings (e.g., naphthyl or anthryl) which condensed rings may or may not be aromatic. In one variation, the aryl group contains from 6 to 14 annular carbon atoms. An aryl group having more than one ring where at least one ring is non-aromatic may be connected to the parent structure at either an aromatic ring position or at a non-aromatic ring position. In one variation, an aryl group having more than one ring where at least one ring is non-aromatic is connected to the parent structure at an aromatic ring position.

“Heteroaryl” or “HetAr” refers to an unsaturated aromatic carbocyclic group having from 1 to 10 annular carbon atoms and at least one annular heteroatom, including but not limited to heteroatoms such as nitrogen, oxygen and sulfur. A heteroaryl group may have a single ring (e.g., pyridyl, furyl) or multiple condensed rings (e.g., indolizinyl, benzothienyl) which condensed rings may or may not be aromatic. A heteroaryl group having more than one ring where at least one ring is non-aromatic may be connected to the parent structure at either an aromatic ring position or at a non-aromatic ring position. In one variation, a heteroaryl group having more than one ring where at least one ring is non-aromatic is connected to the parent structure at an aromatic ring position.

“Substituted aryl” refers to an aryl group having 1 to 5 substituents including, but not limited to, groups such as alkoxy, substituted alkoxy, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, acylamino, substituted or unsubstituted amino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aryl, substituted aryl, heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl, aryloxy, substituted aryloxy, cyano, halo, hydroxyl, nitro, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, oxo, carbonylalkylenealkoxy and the like.

“Substituted heteroaryl” refers to a heteroaryl group having 1 to 5 substituents including, but not limited to, groups such as alkoxy, substituted alkoxy, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, acylamino, substituted or unsubstituted amino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aryl, substituted aryl, heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl, aryloxy, substituted aryloxy, cyano, halo, hydroxyl, nitro, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, oxo, carbonylalkylenealkoxy and the like.

“Aralkyl” refers to a residue in which an aryl moiety is attached to an alkyl residue and wherein the aralkyl group may be attached to the parent structure at either the aryl or the alkyl residue. Preferably, an aralkyl is connected to the parent structure via the alkyl moiety. In one variation, an aralkyl is a fused ring system where at least one cycloalkyl moiety is fused with at least one aryl moiety. A “substituted aralkyl” refers to a residue in which an aryl moiety is attached to a substituted alkyl residue and wherein the aralkyl group may be attached to the parent structure at either the aryl or the alkyl residue. When an aralkyl is connected to the parent structure via the alkyl moiety, it may also be referred to as an “alkaryl”. More particular alkaryl groups are those having 1 to 3 carbon atoms in the alkyl moiety (a “C₁-C₃ alkaryl”).

“Alkoxy” refers to the group alkyl-O—, which includes, by way of example, methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy, iso-propoxy, n-butoxy, tert-butoxy, sec-butoxy, n-pentoxy, n-hexoxy, 1,2-dimethylbutoxy, and the like. Similarly, alkenyloxy refers to the group “alkenyl-O—” and alkynyloxy refers to the group “alkynyl-O—”. “Substituted alkoxy” refers to the group substituted alkyl-O.

“Unsubstituted amino” refers to the group —NH₂.

“Substituted amino” refers to the group —NR_(a)R_(b), where either (a) each R_(a) and R_(b) group is independently selected from the group consisting of H, alkyl, substituted alkyl, alkenyl, substituted alkenyl, alkynyl, substituted alkynyl, aryl, substituted aryl, heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl, heterocyclic, substituted heterocyclic, provided that both R_(a) and R_(b) groups are not H; or (b) R_(a) and R_(b) are joined together with the nitrogen atom to form a heterocyclic or substituted heterocyclic ring.

“Acylamino” refers to the group —C(O)NR_(a)R_(b) where R_(a) and R_(b) are independently selected from the group consisting of H, alkyl, substituted alkyl, alkenyl, substituted alkenyl, alkynyl, substituted alkynyl, aryl, substituted aryl, heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl, heterocyclic, substituted heterocyclic or R_(a) and R_(b) groups can be joined together with the nitrogen atom to form a heterocyclic or substituted heterocyclic ring.

“Aminoacyl” refers to the group —NR_(a)C(O)R_(b) where each R_(a) and R_(b) group is independently selected from the group consisting of H, alkyl, substituted alkyl, alkenyl, substituted alkenyl, alkynyl, substituted alkynyl, aryl, substituted aryl, heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl, heterocyclic or substituted heterocyclic. Preferably, R_(a) is H or alkyl.

“Aminosulfonyl” refers to the groups —NRSO₂-alkyl, —NRSO₂ substituted alkyl, —NRSO₂-alkenyl, —NRSO₂-substituted alkenyl, —NRSO₂-alkynyl, —NRSO₂-substituted alkynyl, —NRSO₂-cycloalkyl, —NRSO₂-substituted cycloalkyl, —NRSO₂-aryl, —NRSO₂-substituted aryl, —NRSO₂-heteroaryl, —NRSO₂-substituted heteroaryl, —NRSO₂-heterocyclic, and —NRSO₂-substituted heterocyclic, where R is H or alkyl and wherein alkyl, substituted alkyl, alkenyl, substituted alkenyl, alkynyl, substituted alkynyl, cycloalkyl, substituted cycloalkyl, aryl, substituted aryl, heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl, heterocyclic and substituted heterocyclic are as defined herein.

“Sulfonylamino” refers to the groups —SO₂NH₂, —SO₂NR-alkyl, —SO₂NR-substituted alkyl, —SO₂NR-alkenyl, —SO₂NR-substituted alkenyl, —SO₂NR-alkynyl, —SO₂NR-substituted alkynyl, —SO₂NR-aryl, —SO₂NR-substituted aryl, —SO₂NR-heteroaryl, —SO₂NR-substituted heteroaryl, —SO₂NR-heterocyclic, and —SO₂NR-substituted heterocyclic, where R is H or alkyl, or —SO₂NR₂, where the two R groups are taken together and with the nitrogen atom to which they are attached to form a heterocyclic or substituted heterocyclic ring.

“Sulfonyl” refers to the groups —SO₂-alkyl, —SO₂-substituted alkyl, —SO₂-alkenyl, —SO₂-substituted alkenyl, —SO₂-alkynyl, —SO₂-substituted alkynyl, —SO₂-aryl, —SO₂-substituted aryl, —SO₂-heteroaryl, —SO₂-substituted heteroaryl, —SO₂-heterocyclic, and —SO₂-substituted heterocyclic.

“Aminocarbonylalkoxy” refers to the group —NR_(a)C(O)OR_(b) where each R_(a) and R_(b) group is independently selected from the group consisting of H, alkyl, substituted alkyl, alkenyl, substituted alkenyl, alkynyl, substituted alkynyl, aryl, substituted aryl, heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl, heterocyclic and substituted heterocyclyl.

“Carbonylalkylenealkoxy” refers to the group —C(═O)—(CH₂)_(a)—OR where R is a substituted or unsubstituted alkyl and n is an integer from 1 to 100, more preferably n is an integer from 1 to 10 or 1 to 5.

“Halo” or “halogen” refers to elements of the Group 17 series having atomic number 9 to 85. Preferred halo groups include the radicals of fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine. Where a residue is substituted with more than one halogen, it may be referred to by using a prefix corresponding to the number of halogen moieties attached, e.g., dihaloaryl, dihaloalkyl, trihaloaryl etc. refer to aryl and alkyl substituted with two (“di”) or three (“tri”) halo groups, which may be but are not necessarily the same halogen; thus 4-chloro-3-fluorophenyl is within the scope of dihaloaryl. An alkyl group in which each H is replaced with a halo group is referred to as a “perhaloalkyl.” A preferred perhaloalkyl group is trifluoroalkyl (—CF₃). Similarly, “perhaloalkoxy” refers to an alkoxy group in which a halogen takes the place of each H in the hydrocarbon making up the alkyl moiety of the alkoxy group. An example of a perhaloalkoxy group is trifluoromethoxy (—OCF₃).

“Carbonyl” refers to the group C═O.

“Cyano” refers to the group —CN.

“Oxo” refers to the moiety ═O.

“Nitro” refers to the group —NO₂.

“Thioalkyl” refers to the groups —S-alkyl.

“Alkylsulfonylamino” refers to the groups —R¹SO₂NR_(a)R_(b) where R_(a) and R_(b) are independently selected from the group consisting of H, alkyl, substituted alkyl, alkenyl, substituted alkenyl, alkynyl, substituted alkynyl, aryl, substituted aryl, heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl, heterocyclic, substituted heterocyclic, or the R_(a) and R_(b) groups can be joined together with the nitrogen atom to form a heterocyclic or substituted heterocyclic ring and R¹ is an alkyl group.

“Carbonylalkoxy” refers to as used herein refers to the groups —C(O)O-alkyl, —C(O)O-substituted alkyl, —C(O)O-aryl, —C(O)O-substituted aryl, —C(O)O-alkenyl, —C(O)O-substituted alkenyl, —C(O)O-alkynyl, —C(O)O-substituted alkynyl, —C(O)O-heteroaryl, —C(O)O-substituted heteroaryl, —C(O)O-heterocyclic or —C(O)O-substituted heterocyclic.

“Geminal” refers to the relationship between two moieties that are attached to the same atom. For example, in the residue —CH₂—CHR¹R², R¹ and R² are geminal and R¹ may be referred to as a geminal R group to R².

“Vicinal” refers to the relationship between two moieties that are attached to adjacent atoms. For example, in the residue —CHR¹—CH₂R², R¹ and R² are vicinal and R¹ may be referred to as a vicinal R group to R².

A composition of “substantially pure” compound means that the composition contains no more than 15% or preferably no more than 10% or more preferably no more than 5% or even more preferably no more than 3% and most preferably no more than 1% impurity, which impurity may be the compound in a different stereochemical form. For instance, a composition of substantially pure (S) compound means that the composition contains no more than 15% or no more than 10% or no more than 5% or no more than 3% or no more than 1% of the (R) form of the compound.

Compounds of the Invention

Compounds according to the invention are detailed herein, including in the Brief Summary of the Invention and the appended claims. The invention includes the use of all of the compounds described herein, including any and all stereoisomers, including geometric isomers (cis/trans) or E/Z isomers, salts and solvates of the compounds described herein, as well as methods of making such compounds.

The invention embraces compounds of the formula (I):

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein:

R¹ is H, hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, perhaloalkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl or carbonylalkylenealkoxy;

each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety;

each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(3a) and R^(3b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety;

each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is independently N, CH or CR⁴;

each m and q is independently 0 or 1;

each R⁴ is independently hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, carbonylalkylenealkoxy, alkylsulfonylamino or acyl;

each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c) and R^(8d) is independently H, hydroxyl, C₁-C₈ alkyl, or is taken together with the carbon to which it is attached and a geminal R⁸ to form a cycloalkyl moiety or a carbonyl moiety;

each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety;

R¹¹ is H, C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl and the

bond indicates the presence of either an E or Z double bond configuration;

R¹² is H, C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl; and

Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, alkoxy, aminoacyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, aminocarbonylalkoxy or acylamino;

provided that when X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH and each R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a) and R^(10b) is hydrogen, then the compound is other than a compound in Table A. The compounds in Table A have the structure of formula (I) where each R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a) and R^(10b) is H, each X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ is CH, R¹, m, q and Q are as listed in Table A, and X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is as listed in Table A. When R⁴ is listed as H, X⁹ is CH.

TABLE A Com- pound E/ No. R⁴ R¹ q m R¹¹ R¹² Z Q  1x H CH₃ 0 0 H H Z Phenyl  2x H CH₃ 0 0 H H E Phenyl  3x H CH₃ 0 0 H H E 4-Pyridyl  4x H CH₃ 0 0 H H Z 3-Pyridyl  5x H CH₃ 0 0 H H E 2-Pyridyl  6x H t-butyl 0 0 H H Z 3-Pyridyl  7x F CH₃ 0 0 H H Z Phenyl  8x F CH₃ 0 0 H H E Phenyl  9x F CH₃ 0 0 H H E 4-Pyridyl 10x F CH₃ 0 0 H H Z 3-Pyridyl 11x F CH₃ 0 0 H H E 2-Pyridyl 12x CH₃ CH₃ 0 0 H H Z Phenyl 13x CH₃ CH₃ 0 0 H H E Phenyl 14x CH₃ CH₃ 0 0 H H Z 3-Pyridyl 15x CH₃ CH₃ 0 0 H H E 4-Pyridyl 16x CH₃ Benzyl 0 0 H H Z 3-Pyridyl 17x F CH₃ 0 0 H H E 4-Fluorophenyl 18x F CH₃ 0 0 H H Z 3-Fluorophenyl 19x CH₃ CH₃ 0 0 H H E 4-CF₃-Phenyl 20x CH₃ CH₃ 0 0 H H Z 3-CF₃-Phenyl 21x F CH₃ 0 0 H H E 4-CF₃-Phenyl 22x F CH₃ 0 0 H H Z 4-OCH₃-Phenyl 23x F CH₃ 0 0 H H Z 4-N(Me)₂-Phenyl 24x CH₃ CH₃ 0 0 H H E 4-Fluorophenyl

Also provided are methods of using compounds described herein, such as compounds of formula (I), in various therapeutic applications. Method of using compounds of Table A are also encompassed. Thus, provided are methods of using a compound of Formula (I-1):

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein:

R¹ is H, hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, perhaloalkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl or carbonylalkylenealkoxy;

each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety;

each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(3a) and R^(3b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety;

each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is independently N, CH or CR⁴;

each m and q is independently 0 or 1;

each R⁴ is independently hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, carbonylalkylenealkoxy, alkylsulfonylamino or acyl;

each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c) and R^(8d) is independently H, hydroxyl, C₁-C₈ alkyl, or is taken together with the carbon to which it is attached and a geminal R⁸ to form a cycloalkyl moiety or a carbonyl moiety;

each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety;

R¹¹ is H, C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl and the

bond indicates the presence of either an E or Z double bond configuration;

R¹² is H, C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl; and

Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, alkoxy, aminoacyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, aminocarbonylalkoxy or acylamino.

In one variation, compounds of the formula (V) are provided, where X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b), Q, q, m, R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c), R^(8d) are as defined for formula (I) and R¹¹ and R¹² are independently H, halo, alkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₁-C₈ alkyl substituted with a carbonylalkoxy, carboxyl or acylamino moiety, C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl and the

bond indicates the presence of either an E or Z double bond configuration. In one such variation, R¹¹ and R¹² are other than H. In another variation, R¹² is other than H, such as when R¹² is a substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl.

In one variation, the compound is of the formula (I), where at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than H. In one such variation, the compound is of the formula (I) where R¹¹ is C₁-C₈ alkyl. For example, the compound in one aspect is of the formula (I) where R¹¹ is methyl. In another such variation, the compound is of the formula (I) where R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl. For example, the compound in one aspect is of the formula (I) where R¹² is methyl, ethyl, cyclopropyl or trifluoromethyl. In one aspect, the compound is of the formula (I) where R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl (e.g., methyl and ethyl). In another aspect, the compound is of the formula (I) where R¹² is C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl (e.g., cyclopropyl). In still another aspect, the compound is of the formula (I) where R¹² is C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl (e.g., trifluoromethyl). In another such variation, R¹¹ and R¹² are independently C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl. In yet another such variation, R¹¹ is C₁-C₈ alkyl and R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl. For example, a compound in one aspect is of the formula (I) where both R¹¹ and R¹² are methyl and in another aspect where R¹¹ is methyl and R¹² is methyl, ethyl, cyclopropyl or trifluoromethyl. Where applicable, including but not limited to the variations of this paragraph, in a one variation the compound of formula (I) is further defined by Q being a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl.

When Q is an unsubstituted or substituted heteroaryl, in one variation it is a heteroaryl containing an annular nitrogen atom. In one aspect, when Q is an unsubstituted or substituted heteroaryl the heteroaryl contains only nitrogen and carbon annular atoms. In a particular variation, Q is an unsubstituted pyridyl that may be bound to the parent structure at any available ring position. For example, in one variation of formula (I), Q is 4-pyridyl, 3-pyridyl or 2-pyridyl. When Q is a substituted heteroaryl in one aspect it is a substituted pyridyl. When Q is a substituted pyridyl, the pyridyl may be substituted with one or more than one substituent and the substituted pyridyl may be bound to the parent structure at any available ring position. For example, in one variation of formula (I), Q is a monosubstituted pyridyl where the substituent is a C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl (e.g., methyl).

In a particular variation, the compound is of the formula (I) where both q and m are 0 and where at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than H. For example, in one variation, both q and m are 0 and R¹¹ and R¹² are as provided in any of the variations detailed in the preceding paragraph. In a particular such variation, both q and m are 0 and R¹² is methyl. In still another variation, the compound is of the formula (I) where both q and m are 0, R¹² is methyl and at least one of (i)-(iii) applies: (i) X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo (e.g., chloro); (ii) Q is a substituted phenyl; and (iii) X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH. In yet another variation, the compound is of the formula (I) where both q and m are 0, R¹² is methyl and at least one of (i)-(iii) applies: (i) X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo (e.g., chloro) or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl; (ii) Q is a substituted or unsubstituted pyridyl; and (iii) X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH.

In one variation of formula (I), both q and m are 0, R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl (e.g., methyl) and at least one of X⁷-X¹⁰ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo. In one such variation, both q and m are 0, R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl (e.g., methyl), at least one of X⁷-X¹⁰ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo, and the compound further has one or more of the following structural features: (i) Q is a substituted aryl; (ii) X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH; (iii) R¹¹ is H; (iv) R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a) and R^(10b) are each H; and (v) R¹ is alkyl. In a particular such variation, both q and m are 0, R¹² is methyl, X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is chloro. In a more particular such variation, both q and m are 0, R¹² is methyl, X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is chloro, and at least one of (i)-(v) applies: (i) Q is a substituted phenyl; (ii) X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH; (iii) R¹¹ is H; (iv) R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a) and R^(10b) are each H; and (v) R¹ is methyl.

In one variation, the compound is of the formula (I) where q is 0 and m is 1. In one such variation, the compound is of the formula (I) where q is 0, m is 1 and R¹¹ and R¹² are both H. In another aspect, the compound is of the formula (I) where q is 0, m is 1 and Q is an unsubstituted aryl or heteroaryl.

In another variation, the compound is of the formula (I) where Q is a di- or tri-substituted aryl, substituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkenyl or substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl. In one aspect, the compound is of the formula (I) where Q is a di- or tri-substituted aryl. When Q is a di- or tri-substituted aryl, the substituents may be the same or different and may be located at any available position on the aryl ring. In one aspect, Q is a di- or tri-substituted phenyl (e.g., 4-methoxy-3-fluorophenyl, 3,4-di-fluorophenyl, 4-chloro-3-fluorophenyl, 3,4-dichlorophenyl, 3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl, 2,4-difluorophenyl, 2,4-dichlorophenyl and 2,4,6-trifluorophenyl). In another aspect, Q is a phenyl substituted with at least one chloro or methyl group (e.g., 4-chlorophenyl and 4-methylphenyl). In yet another aspect, the compound is of the formula (I) where Q is a substituted heteroaryl (e.g., where Q is 6-methyl-3-pyridyl, 6-trifluoromethyl-3-pyridyl, 5-trifluoromethyl-3-pyridyl or pyrimidinyl). In one aspect, Q is a substituted pyridyl such as 6-methyl-3-pyridyl, 6-trifluoromethyl-3-pyridyl and 5-trifluoromethyl-3-pyridyl. In another variation, compounds of formula (I) are provided where Q is an unsubstituted heteroaryl and R¹² is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl such as methyl. In one such variation, Q is pyridyl (e.g., 4-pyridyl) and R¹² is methyl.

In one variation, the compound is of the formula (I) where at least one of X⁷-X¹⁰ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is chloro. In such variation, X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is chloro. In another variation, X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is chloro and X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are CH. In one aspect, the compound is of the formula (I) where at least one of X⁷-X¹⁰ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is chloro. (e.g., when X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is chloro) and Q is an unsubstituted aryl (e.g., phenyl), a substituted aryl (e.g., 4-fluorophenyl, 4-chlorophenyl, 4-methoxyphenyl, 3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl, 3,4-difluorophenyl, 4-chloro-3-fluorophenyl, 3,4-dichlorophenyl, 3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl, 2,4-difluorophenyl, 2,4,5-trifluorophenyl and 2,4-dichlorophenyl), an unsubstituted heteroaryl (e.g., 3-pyridyl and 4-pyridyl) or a substituted heteroaryl (e.g., 6-methyl-3-pyridyl, 6-trifluoromethyl-3-pyridyl and 5-trifluoromethyl-3-pyridyl). In a particular variation, X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is chloro, X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH, R¹ is methyl or cyclopropyl and Q is an unsubstituted aryl, a substituted aryl, an unsubstituted heteroaryl or a substituted heteroaryl.

In any variation or aspect of formula (I) detailed herein, in one embodiment, the compound of formula (I) is in the E configuration. Similarly, in any variation or aspect of formula (I) detailed herein, in another embodiment, the compound of formula (I) is in the Z configuration.

In certain embodiments, the compound of formula (I) has the structure:

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(10a), R^(10b), R¹¹, R¹², q, Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ are defined as for formula (I) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (I) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (I-A) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (I-A). In one variation, compounds of formula (I-A) are detailed herein, provided the compound is other than a compound of Table A. In another variation, compounds of formula (I-A), including those of Table A, and methods of using and administering such compounds are encompassed. In one aspect of formula (I-A), q is 1. In another variation of formula (I-A), q is 0 and R¹² is other than H (e.g., where R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl). In another particular variation of formula (I-A), q is 0 and R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl (e.g., methyl). In one such variation, R¹² is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl. In one variation of formula (I-A), R¹² is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl and Q is other than a halo-substituted phenyl. In a more particular variation of formula (I-A), q is 0, R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl, X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo and each X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ is CH. In an even more particular variation of formula (I-A), q is 0, R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl, X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo, each X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ is CH, R¹ is alkyl (e.g., methyl) and each R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b) is H. In any variation or aspect of formula (I-A) detailed herein, in one embodiment, the compound of formula (I-A) is in the E configuration. Similarly, in any variation or aspect of formula (I-A) detailed herein, in another embodiment, the compound of formula (I-A) is in the Z configuration.

In other embodiments, the compound of formula (I) has the structure:

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(10a), R^(10b), R¹¹, R¹², Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ are defined as for formula (I) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (I) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (I-B) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (I-B). In one variation, compounds of formula (I-B) are detailed herein, provided the compound is other than a compound of Table A. In another variation, compounds of formula (I-B), including those of Table A, and methods of using and administering such compounds are encompassed. In one aspect of formula (I-B), at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than H. In one such variation of formula (I-B), R¹¹ is H and R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl. In one aspect of formula (I-B), R¹¹ is H and R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl. In another variation of formula (I-B) at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than H and R¹ is C₁-C₈ alkyl. In one such variation, R¹² is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl. In one variation of formula (I-B), R¹² is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl and Q is other than a halo-substituted phenyl. In a more particular variation of formula (I-B), R¹¹ is H, R₁₂ is C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl and R¹ is C₁-C₈ alkyl. In an even more particular variation of formula (I-B), R¹¹ is H, R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl, X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo and each X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ is CH. In another variation of formula (I-B), R¹¹ is H, R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl, X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo, each X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ is CH, R¹ is alkyl and each R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b) is H. In any variation or aspect of formula (I-B) detailed herein, in one embodiment, the compound of formula (I-B) is in the E configuration. Similarly, in any variation or aspect of formula (I-B) detailed herein, in another embodiment, the compound of formula (I-B) is in the Z configuration. For example, provided are compounds of formula (I-B) where R¹¹ is H, R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl, X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo, each X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ is CH and the compound is in the E configuration. Likewise, also provided are compounds of formula (I-B) where R¹¹ is H, R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl, X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo, each X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ is CH and the compound is in the Z configuration.

In specific embodiments, the compound having formula (I-B) has the structure:

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(10a), R^(10b), R¹¹, R¹², Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ are defined as for formula (I-B) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (I-B) and formula (I) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formulae (I-b1) and (I-b2) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formulae (I-b1) and (I-b2). In one variation, compounds of formula (I-b1) and (I-b2) are detailed herein, provided the compound is other than a compound of Table A. In another variation, compounds of formula (I-b1) and (I-b2) are provided, including those of Table A, and methods of using and administering such compounds are encompassed. In one variation of formulae (I-b1) and (I-b2), at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than H. In one such variation of formulae (I-b1) and (I-b2), R¹¹ is H and R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl. In one such variation, R¹² is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl. In another variation, R¹² is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl and Q is other than a halo-substituted phenyl. In one variation, the compound is of the formula (I-b1) where R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl (e.g., methyl). In another variation, the compound is of the formula (I-b1) where R¹¹ is H and R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl (e.g., methyl). In a particular variation of formula (I-b1), R¹¹ is H, R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl (e.g., methyl) and X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo (e.g., chloro). In a more particular variation of formula (I-b1), R¹¹ is H, R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl (e.g., methyl), X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo (e.g., chloro) and at least of of (i)-(iv) applies: (i) X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH; (ii) Q is an unsubstituted aryl (e.g., phenyl), a substituted aryl (e.g., 4-fluorophenyl, 4-chlorophenyl, 4-methyoxyphenyl, 3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl, 3,4-difluorophenyl, 4-chloro-3-fluorophenyl, 3,4-dichlorophenyl, 3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl, 2,4-difluorophenyl, 2,4,5-trifluorophenyl and 2,4-dichlorophenyl), an unsubstituted heteroaryl (e.g., 3-pyridyl and 4-pyridyl) or a substituted heteroaryl (e.g., 6-methyl-3-pyridyl, 6-trifluoromethyl-3-pyridyl and 5-trifluoromethyl-3-pyridyl); (iii) R¹ is C₁-C₈ alkyl (e.g., methyl and cyclopropyl) and (iv) each R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a) and R^(10b) is H. In a further variation of formula (I-b1), R¹¹ is H, R¹² is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl. Such variations are also applicable to formula (I-b2).

In other embodiments, the compound of formula (I) has the structure:

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(10a), R^(10b), R¹¹, R¹², Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ are defined as for formula (I) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (I) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (I-C) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (I-C). In one variation of formula (I-C), R^(8a) and R^(8b) are each H. In another variation of formula (I-C), at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is H. In yet another variation of formula (I-C), both R¹¹ and R¹² are H. In one aspect of formula (I-C), R^(8a) and R^(8b) are each H and at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is H. In one such aspect of formula (I-C), R^(8a) and R^(8b) are each H, R¹¹ is H and R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl. In another such aspect of formula (I-C), R^(8a), R^(8b), R¹¹ and R¹² are each H. In a particular variation of formula (I-C), R^(8a), R^(8b), R¹¹ and R¹² are each H and at least one of X⁷-X¹⁰ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo (e.g., chloro). In a more particular variation of formula (I-C), R^(8a), R^(8b), R¹¹ and R¹² are each H and X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo (e.g., chloro). In a still more particular variation of formula (I-C), R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(10a), R^(10b), R¹¹, and R¹², are each H, X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo (e.g., chloro) and R¹ is C₁-C₈ alkyl (e.g., methyl). In any variation or aspect of formula (I-C) detailed herein, in one embodiment, the compound of formula (I-C) is in the E configuration. Similarly, in any variation or aspect of formula (I-C) detailed herein, in another embodiment, the compound of formula (I-C) is in the Z configuration.

In specific embodiments, the compound of formula (I-C) has the formula:

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(10a), R^(10b), R¹¹, R¹², Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ are defined as for formula (I-C) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (I-C) and formula (I) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formulae (I-c1) and (I-c2) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formulae (I-c1) and (I-c2).

In further embodiments, the compound of formula (I) has the structure:

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(10a), R^(10b), R¹¹, R¹², Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ are defined as for formula (I) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (I) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (I-D) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (I-D). In one aspect of formula (I-D), at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than H (e.g., when R¹² is methyl). In another aspect of formula (I-D), at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than H (e.g., when R¹² is methyl) and R^(8c) and R^(8d) are both H. In still another aspect of formula (I-D), at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than H (e.g., when R¹² is methyl), R^(8c) and R^(8d) are both H, and at least one of X⁷-X¹⁰ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo. In any variation or aspect of formula (I-D) detailed herein, in one embodiment, the compound of formula (I-D) is in the E configuration. Similarly, in any variation or aspect of formula (I-D) detailed herein, in another embodiment, the compound of formula (I-D) is in the Z configuration.

In specific embodiments, the compound of formula (I-D) has the formula:

or a salt or solvate thereof;

R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(10a), R^(10b), R¹¹, R¹², Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ are defined as for formula (I-D) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (I-D) and formula (I) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formulae (I-d1) and (I-d2) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formulae (I-d1) and (I-d2).

In further embodiments, the compound of formula (I) has the structure:

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein R¹, Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ are defined as for formula (I) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (I) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (I-E) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (I-E). In a particular variation of formula (I-E), X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo. In further variations of formula (I-E), X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo and each X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ is CH. In still further variations of formula (I-E), X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo and Q is a substituted aryl. In other variations of formula (I-E), X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl. In one aspect of formula (I-E), R¹ is a C₁-C₈ alkyl (e.g., methyl) and X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo. In another aspect of formula (I-E), R¹ is a C₁-C₈ alkyl (e.g., methyl), X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo (e.g., chloro) and Q is a substituted aryl (e.g., a substituted phenyl). In a further aspect of formula (I-E), R¹ is methyl, R⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is chloro, X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH and Q is a substituted aryl or a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl. In another variation of formula (I-E), Q is a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl. When Q is an unsubstituted or substituted heteroaryl, in one variation it is a heteroaryl containing an annular nitrogen atom. In one aspect, when Q is an unsubstituted or substituted heteroaryl the heteroaryl contains only nitrogen and carbon annular atoms. In a particular variation, Q is an unsubstituted pyridyl that may be bound to the parent structure at any available ring position. For example, in one variation of formula (I), Q is 4-pyridyl, 3-pyridyl or 2-pyridyl. When Q is a substituted heteroaryl in one aspect it is a substituted pyridyl. When Q is a substituted pyridyl, the pyridyl may be substituted with one or more than one substituent and the substituted pyridyl may be bound to the parent structure at any available ring position. For example, in one variation of formula (I-E), Q is a monosubstituted pyridyl where the substituent is a C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl (e.g., methyl). In a particular variation of formula (I-E), X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl. In a further variation of formula (I-E), Q is a substituted or unsubstituted pyridyl and at least one of (i)-(iii) applies: (i) X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl; (ii) R¹ is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl and (iii) X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH.

In specific embodiments, the compound of formula (I-E) has the formula:

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein R¹, Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ are defined as for formula (I-E) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (I-E) and formula (I) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formulae (I-e1) and (I-e2) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formulae (I-e1) and (I-e2). In a particular variation of compounds (1-e1) and (1-e2), Q is a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl.

In further embodiments, the compound of formula (I) has the structure:

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein X⁹ is CH or CR⁴ and R⁴ and Q are defined as for formula (I) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (I) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (I-F) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (I-F). In one variation of formula (I-F), X⁹ is CH or CR⁴ where R⁴ is -halo or substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl. In a particular variation of formula (I-F), X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo (e.g. chloro). In another particular variation of formula (I-F), X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl (e.g. methyl). In a particular variation of formula (I-F), X⁹ is CH. In further variations of formula (I-F), Q is a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl. In one variation, Q is an unsubstituted heteroaryl (e.g. 4-pyridyl or 4-pyrimidyl). In still further variations of formula (I-F), X⁹ is CH or CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo or substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl. In one aspect of formula (I-F), X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is a C₁-C₈ alkyl (e.g., methyl) and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl. In another aspect of formula (I-F), X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo (e.g., chloro) and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl. In another aspect of formula (I-F), X⁹ is CH and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl. In a further aspect of formula (I-F), X⁹ is CH or CR⁴ where R⁴ is methyl or chloro and Q is 4-pyridyl.

In specific embodiments, the compound of formula (I-F) has the formula:

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein X⁹ is CH or CR⁴ and R⁴ and Q are defined as for formula (I-F) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (I-F) and formula (I) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formulae (I-f1) and (I-f2) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formulae (I-f1) and (I-f2). In one particular aspect of formula (I-f1), X⁹ is CH or CR⁴ where R⁴ is methyl or chloro and Q is 4-pyridyl. In one particular aspect of formula (I-f2), X⁹ is CH or CR⁴ where R⁴ is methyl or chloro and Q is 4-pyridyl.

In one variation, compounds of the formula (J-1) are provided:

or a salt or solvate thereof, where R¹, R⁴, R¹² and Q are defined as for formula (I) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (I) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (J-1) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (J-1).

In one variation, compounds of the formula (J-1) are provided, or a salt or solvate thereof, where R¹ is a substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl; R⁴ is H, halo, trifluoromethyl, a C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl or a substituted amino; R¹² is substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, halo and alkoxy; Q is substituted aryl or a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl and the

bond indicates the presence of either an E or Z double bond configuration. In one variation of formula (J-1), R¹ is an unsubstituted C₁-₈ alkyl or a C₁-C₈ alkyl substituted with a halo or hydroxyl group. In one such variation, R¹ is methyl, 2-haloethyl (e.g., 2-fluoroethyl), 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl, or a hydroxyl-substituted pentyl group. In a particular variation of formula (J-1), R¹ is —CH₃, —CH₂CH₂F, —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₂OH. In another variation of formula (J-1), R⁴ is H, halo, methyl, trifluoromethyl, or a substituted amino of the formula —N(H)(C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl). When R⁴ is a halo (e.g., fluoro or chloro), in one aspect R⁴ is chloro. In one variation of formula (J-1), R⁴ is H, methyl or chloro. In one variation of formula (J-1), R⁴ is methyl or chloro. When R⁴ is a substituted amino of the formula —N(H)(C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl), in one aspect C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl is a linear C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl such as methyl or ethyl. In a particular variation of formula (J-1), R⁴ is —N(H)(CH₃). It is understood that any R¹ for formula (J-1) may be combined with any R⁴ of formula (J-1) the same as if each and every combination where specifically and individually listed. For example, compounds of the formula (J-1) are provided where R¹ is —CH₃, —CH₂CH₂F, —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₂OH and R⁴ is H, chloro, fluoro, methyl, trifluoromethyl, or —N(H)(CH₃). Likewise, compounds of the formula (J-1) are provided where R¹ is methyl and R⁴ is H, halo, methyl or a substituted amino of the formula —N(H)(C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl). In one such aspect, compounds of the formula (J-1) are provided where R¹ is methyl and R⁴ is H, halo or methyl. In one such aspect, compounds of the formula (J-1) are provided where R¹ is methyl and R⁴ is halo (e.g., fluoro or chloro), trifluoromethyl, or methyl. In one variation of formula (J-1), R¹² is an unsubstituted C₁-₈ alkyl or a C₁-C₈ alkyl substituted with a halo, hydroxyl, carboxyl or acylamino group. In one such variation, R¹² is methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, t-butyl, cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclohexyl, halo (e.g., fluoro), a carboxyl-substituted methyl group or an amido-substituted methyl group. In a particular variation, R¹² is methyl. When Q of formula (J-1) is a substituted aryl, in one aspect Q is a substituted phenyl. In one aspect, Q is a mono-substituted phenyl. In a particular aspect, Q of formula (J-1) is a halo-substituted phenyl, alkoxy-substituted phenyl or an acylamino-substituted phenyl. Thus, compounds of the formula (J-1) are provided where Q in one variation is a phenyl mono-substituted with a fluoro, C₁-C₈ alkoxy (e.g., methoxy), an acylamino moiety of the formula —C(O)NH(C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl) or an acylamino moiety of the formula —C(O)N(C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl)₂, such as 2-fluoro-phenyl, 4-fluoro-phenyl, 4-methoxy-phenyl, 4-(C(O)NH(CH₃) and 4-(C(O)N(CH₃)₂)-phenyl. In one aspect, Q is a di-substituted phenyl. In one aspect, Q of formula (J-1) is a di-halo substituted phenyl group such as 3,4-difluoro-phenyl. In a particular aspect, Q of formula (I-G) is a phenyl group substituted with one halo group and one C₁-C₈ alkoxy group (e.g., methoxy). Thus, compounds of the formula (J-1) are provided where Q in one variation is a phenyl substituted with a fluoro and a C₁-C₈ alkoxy group, such as 3-fluoro-4-methoxy-phenyl. When Q of formula (J-1) is a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, in one variation the substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl is a pyridyl or pyrimidyl moiety. Thus, in one aspect of formula (J-1), Q is an unsubstituted pyridyl or pyrimidyl, such as 3-pyridyl, 4-pyridyl and 4-pyrimidyl. In another aspect of formula (J-1), Q is a substituted pyridyl, such as 6-methyl-3-pyridyl. It is understood that any Q for formula (J-1) may be combined with any R¹ and/or R⁴ of formula (J-1) the same as if each and every combination where specifically and individually listed. For example, compounds of the formula (J-1) are provided where R¹ is —CH₃, —CH₂CH₂F, —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₂OH; R⁴ is H, chloro, fluoro, methyl, trifluoromethyl, or —N(H)(CH₃) and Q is 4-pyridyl, 3-pyridyl, 6-methyl-3-pyridyl, 6-pyrimidyl, 4-fluoro-phenyl, 4-methoxy-phenyl, 3-fluoro-4-methoxy-phenyl or 4-dimethylcarbamoyl-phenyl. Likewise, compounds of the formula (J-1) are provided where R¹ is methyl; R⁴ is H, halo or methyl and Q is an unsubstituted pyridyl. In any variation of formula (J-1), in one aspect, the

bond indicates the presence of an E double bond configuration. In any variation of formula (J-1), in one aspect, the

bond indicates the presence of a Z double bond configuration.

In specific variations, compounds of the formula (J-1) have the formula:

or a salt or solvate thereof; wherein R¹, R⁴, R¹² and Q are defined as for formula (J-1) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (J-1) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formulae (J-1a) and (J-1b) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formulae (J-1a) and (J-1b). In one particular aspect of formula (J-1a), R¹ is —CH₃, —CH₂CH₂F, —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₂OH; R⁴ is H, chloro, fluoro, methyl, trifluoromethyl, or —N(H)(CH₃)R¹² is an unsubstituted C₁-₈ alkyl or a C₁-C₈ alkyl substituted with a halo, hydroxyl, carboxyl or acylamino group. In one such variation, R¹ is methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, t-butyl, cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclohexyl, halo (e.g., fluoro), a carboxyl-substituted methyl group or a amido-substituted methyl group and Q is 4-pyridyl, 3-pyridyl, 6-methyl-3-pyridyl, 6-pyrimidyl, 4-fluoro-phenyl, 4-methoxy-phenyl, 3-fluoro-4-methoxy-phenyl or 4-dimethylcarbamoyl-phenyl. In another aspect of formula (J-1a), R¹ is methyl, R⁴ is H, chloro or methyl, R¹² is methyl and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted pyridyl. In one particular aspect of formula (J-1b), R¹ is methyl, R⁴ is methyl, R¹² is methyl and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted pyridyl. Pharmaceutically acceptable salts of compounds of the formula (J-1), (J-1a) and (J-1b) are also provided.

In one variation, compounds of the formula (J-2) are provided:

or a salt or solvate thereof, where R¹ is a substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl; R⁴ is H, halo or a C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl, R¹² is substituted or unsubstituted C₁-₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, halo and alkoxy and the

bond indicates the presence of either an E or Z double bond configuration and where R⁴ and the pyridyl moiety may be connected to the parent structure at any available position. In one variation of formula (J-2), R¹ is an unsubstituted C₁-₈ alkyl or a C₁-C₈ alkyl substituted with a halo or hydroxyl group. In one such variation, R¹ is methyl, 2-haloethyl (e.g., 2-fluoroethyl), 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl, or a hydroxyl-substituted pentyl group. In a particular variation of formula (J-2), R¹ is —CH₃, —CH₂CH₂F, —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₂OH. In another variation of formula (J-2), R⁴ is H, halo, trifluoromethyl, or methyl. When R⁴ is a halo (e.g., fluoro or chloro), in one aspect R⁴ is chloro. In one variation of formula (J-2), R⁴ is H, methyl or chloro. In one variation of formula (J-2), R⁴ is methyl or chloro. In one variation of formula (J-1), R¹² is an unsubstituted C₁-₈ alkyl or a C₁-C₈ alkyl substituted with a halo, hydroxyl, carboxyl or acylamino group. In one such variation, R¹ is methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, t-butyl, cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclohexyl, halo (e.g., fluoro), a carboxyl-substituted methyl group or an amido-substituted methyl group. In a particular variation, R¹² is methyl. It is understood that any R¹ for formula (J-2) may be combined with any R⁴ of formula (J-2) the same as if each and every combination were specifically and individually listed. For example, compounds of the formula (J-2) are provided where R¹ is —CH₃, —CH₂CH₂F, —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₂OH and R⁴ is H, chloro, fluoro, trifluoromethyl, or methyl. Likewise, compounds of the formula (J-2) are provided where R¹ is methyl and R⁴ is H, halo or methyl. In one such aspect, compounds of the formula (J-2) are provided where R¹ is methyl and R⁴ is halo (e.g., fluoro or chloro), trifluoromethyl, or methyl. In any variation of formula (J-2), in one aspect, the

bond indicates the presence of an E double bond configuration. In any variation of formula (J-2), in one aspect, the

bond indicates the presence of a Z double bond configuration.

In specific variations, compounds of the formula (J-2) have the formula:

or a salt or solvate thereof; wherein R¹, R⁴ and R¹² are defined as for formula (J-2). That is, variations of formula (J-2) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formulae (J-2a) and (J-2b) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formulae (J-2a) and (J-2b). Pharmaceutically acceptable salts of compounds of the formula (J-2), (J-2a) and (J-2b) are also provided.

Compounds of the formula (J-3) and (J-4) are also provided:

or a salt or solvate thereof, wherein R¹ is CH₃, —CH₂CH₂—C(CH₃)₂(OH), —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂F; R^(4a) is H or F; R^(4c) is H, CH₃, Cl, F, CF₃, or —NHCH₃; R^(9b) is H or F; R^(9c) is F, OCH₃, —CONH(CH₃) or —CON(CH₃)₂ and R¹² is an unsubstituted C₁-₈ alkyl or a C₁-C₈ alkyl substituted with a halo, hydroxyl, carboxyl or acylamino group. In one embodiment of formula (J-3) and (J-4), R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; R^(4c) is CH₃, Cl, F or —NHCH₃; R^(9b) is H or F; R^(9c) is F, OCH₃, —CONH(CH₃) or —CON(CH₃)₂; and R¹² is methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, t-butyl, cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclohexyl, halo (e.g., fluoro), a carboxyl-substituted methyl group or a amido-substituted methyl group. In a further embodiment, R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; R^(4c) is CH₃, Cl, F or —NHCH₃; R^(9b) is H; R^(9c) is F, OCH₃; and R¹² is methyl

Compounds of the formula (J-5) and (J-6) are also embraced,

or a salt or solvate thereof, wherein R¹ is CH₃, —CH₂CH₂—C(CH₃)₂(OH), —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂F; R^(4a) is H or F; R^(4c) is H, CH₃, Cl, F, CF₃, or —NHCH₃; and R¹² is methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, t-butyl, cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclohexyl, halo (e.g., fluoro), a carboxyl-substituted methyl group or a amido-substituted methyl group. In one embodiment of formula (J-5) and (J-6) R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; R^(4c) is CH₃, Cl, F or —NHCH₃; and R¹² is CH₃. In yet another variation, R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; R^(4c) is CH₃, Cl or F; and R¹² is CH₃.

In one variation, compounds of the formula (J-7) or (J-8) are provided

or a salt or solvate thereof, wherein R¹ is CH₃, —CH₂CH₂—C(CH₃)₂(OH), —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂F; R^(4a) is H or F; R^(4c) is H, CH₃, Cl, F, CF₃, or —NHCH₃; R^(9c) is H, F, CH₃, CF₃, OCH₃, —CONH(CH₃) or —CON(CH₃)₂; and R¹² is methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, t-butyl, cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclohexyl, halo (e.g., fluoro), a carboxyl-substituted methyl group or a amido-substituted methyl group. In one variation of formula (J-7) and (J-8) R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; R^(4c) is CH₃, Cl, F, CF₃, or —NHCH₃; and R^(9c) is H, F, CF₃, or CH₃; and R¹² is methyl. In a particular variation, R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; R^(4c) is CH₃, CF₃, Cl or F; and R^(9c) is H, CF₃, or CH₃.

In another variation, compounds of the formula (J-9) and (J-10) are provided:

or a salt or solvate thereof, wherein R¹ is CH₃, —CH₂CH₂—C(CH₃)₂(OH), —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂F; R^(4a) is H or F; and R^(4c) is H, CH₃, Cl, F, —CF₃, or —NHCH₃. R¹² is methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, t-butyl, cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclohexyl, halo (e.g., fluoro), a carboxyl-substituted methyl group or a amido-substituted methyl group In one embodiment of formula (J-9) and (J-10), R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; and R^(4c) is CH₃, Cl, F, CF₃, or —NHCH₃. In one embodiment R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; R^(4c) is CH₃, CF₃, Cl or F; and R¹² is methyl.

In one variation, compounds of the formula (I-G) are provided:

or a salt or solvate thereof, where R¹, R⁴ and Q are defined as for formula (I) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (I) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (I-G) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (I-G).

In one variation, compounds of the formula (I-G) are provided, or a salt or solvate thereof, where R¹ is a substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl; R⁴ is H, halo, trifluoromethyl, a C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl or a substituted amino; Q is substituted aryl or a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl and the

bond indicates the presence of either an E or Z double bond configuration. In one variation of formula (I-G), R¹ is an unsubstituted C₁-₈ alkyl or a C₁-C₈ alkyl substituted with a halo or hydroxyl group. In one such variation, R¹ is methyl, 2-haloethyl (e.g., 2-fluoroethyl), 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl, or a hydroxyl-substituted pentyl group. In a particular variation of formula (I-G), R¹ is —CH₃, —CH₂CH₂F, —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₂OH. In another variation of formula (I-G), R⁴ is H, halo, methyl, trifluoromethyl, or a substituted amino of the formula —N(H)(C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl). When R⁴ is a halo (e.g., fluoro or chloro), in one aspect R⁴ is chloro. In one variation of formula (I-G), R⁴ is H, methyl or chloro. In one variation of formula (I-G), R⁴ is methyl or chloro. When R⁴ is a substituted amino of the formula —N(H)(C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl), in one aspect C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl is a linear C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl such as methyl or ethyl. In a particular variation of formula (I-G), R⁴ is —N(H)(CH₃). It is understood that any R¹ for formula (I-G) may be combined with any R⁴ of formula (I-G) the same as if each and every combination where specifically and individually listed. For example, compounds of the formula (I-G) are provided where R¹ is —CH₃, —CH₂CH₂F, —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₂OH and R⁴ is H, chloro, fluoro, methyl, trifluoromethyl, or —N(H)(CH₃). Likewise, compounds of the formula (I-G) are provided where R¹ is methyl and R⁴ is H, halo, methyl or a substituted amino of the formula —N(H)(C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl). In one such aspect, compounds of the formula (I-G) are provided where R¹ is methyl and R⁴ is H, halo, trifluoromethyl, or methyl. In one such aspect, compounds of the formula (I-G) are provided where R¹ is methyl and R⁴ is halo (e.g., fluoro or chloro) or methyl. When Q of formula (I-G) is a substituted aryl, in one aspect Q is a substituted phenyl. In one aspect, Q is a mono-substituted phenyl. In a particular aspect, Q of formula (I-G) is a halo-substituted phenyl, alkoxy-substituted phenyl or a acylamino-substituted phenyl. Thus, compounds of the formula (I-G) are provided where Q in one variation is a phenyl mono-substituted with a fluoro, C₁-C₈ alkoxy (e.g., methoxy), an acylamino moiety of the formula —C(O)NH(C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl) or an acylamino moiety of the formula —C(O)N(C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl)₂, such as 2-fluoro-phenyl, 4-fluoro-phenyl, 4-methoxy-phenyl, 4-(C(O)NH(CH₃) and 4-(C(O)N(CH₃)₂)-phenyl. In one aspect, Q is a di-substituted phenyl. In one aspect, Q of formula (I-G) is a di-halo substituted phenyl group such as 3,4-difluoro-phenyl. In a particular aspect, Q of formula (I-G) is a phenyl group substituted with one halo group and one C₁-C₈ alkoxy group (e.g., methoxy). Thus, compounds of the formula (I-G) are provided where Q in one variation is a phenyl substituted with a fluoro and a C₁-C₈ alkoxy group, such as 3-fluoro-4-methoxy-phenyl. When Q of formula (I-G) is a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, in one variation the substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl is a pyridyl or pyrimidyl moiety. Thus, in one aspect of formula (I-G), Q is an unsubstituted pyridyl or pyrimidyl, such as 3-pyridyl, 4-pyridyl and 4-pyrimidyl. In another aspect of formula (I-G), Q is a substituted pyridyl, such as 6-methyl-3-pyridyl. It is understood that any Q for formula (I-G) may be combined with any R¹ and/or R⁴ of formula (I-G) the same as if each and every combination where specifically and individually listed. For example, compounds of the formula (I-G) are provided where R¹ is —CH₃, —CH₂CH₂F, —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₂OH; R⁴ is H, chloro, fluoro, trifluoromethyl, methyl or —N(H)(CH₃) and Q is 4-pyridyl, 3-pyridyl, 6-methyl-3-pyridyl, 6-trifluoromethyl-3-pyridyl, 6-pyrimidyl, 4-fluoro-phenyl, 4-methoxy-phenyl, 3-fluoro-4-methoxy-phenyl or 4-dimethylcarbamoyl-phenyl. Likewise, compounds of the formula (I-G) are provided where R¹ is methyl; R⁴ is H, halo or methyl and Q is an unsubstituted pyridyl. In any variation of formula (I-G), in one aspect, the

bond indicates the presence of an E double bond configuration. In any variation of formula (I-G), in one aspect, the

bond indicates the presence of a Z double bond configuration.

In specific variations, compounds of the formula (I-G) have the formula:

or a salt or solvate thereof; wherein R¹, R⁴ and Q are defined as for formula (I-G) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (I-G) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formulae (I-g1) and (I-g2) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formulae (I-g1) and (I-g2). In one particular aspect of formula (I-g1), R¹ is —CH₃, —CH₂CH₂F, —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₂OH; R⁴ is H, chloro, fluoro, methyl trifluoromethyl, or —N(H)(CH₃) and Q is 4-pyridyl, 3-pyridyl, 6-methyl-3-pyridyl, 6-trifluoromethyl-3-pyridyl, 6-pyrimidyl, 4-fluoro-phenyl, 4-methoxy-phenyl, 3-fluoro-4-methoxy-phenyl or 4-dimethylcarbamoyl-phenyl. In another aspect of formula (I-g1), R¹ is methyl, R⁴ is H, chloro or methyl and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted pyridyl. In one particular aspect of formula (I-g2), R¹ is methyl, R⁴ is methyl and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted pyridyl. Pharmaceutically acceptable salts of compounds of the formula (I-G), (I-g1) and (I-g2) are also provided.

In one variation, compounds of the formula (I-H) are provided:

or a salt or solvate thereof, where R¹ is a substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl; R⁴ is H, halo or a C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl and the

bond indicates the presence of either an E or Z double bond configuration and where R⁴ and the pyridyl moiety may be connected to the parent structure at any available position. In one variation of formula (I-H), R¹ is an unsubstituted C₁-₈ alkyl or a C₁-C₈ alkyl substituted with a halo or hydroxyl group. In one such variation, R¹ is methyl, 2-haloethyl (e.g., 2-fluoroethyl), 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl, or a hydroxyl-substituted pentyl group. In a particular variation of formula (I-H), R¹ is —CH₃, —CH₂CH₂F, —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₂OH. In another variation of formula (I-H), R⁴ is H, halo, trifluoromethyl, or methyl. When R⁴ is a halo (e.g., fluoro or chloro), in one aspect R⁴ is chloro. In one variation of formula (I-H), R⁴ is H, methyl or chloro. In one variation of formula (I-H), R⁴ is methyl or chloro. It is understood that any R¹ for formula (I-H) may be combined with any R⁴ of formula (I-H) the same as if each and every combination were specifically and individually listed. For example, compounds of the formula (I-H) are provided where R¹ is —CH₃, —CH₂CH₂F, —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₂OH and R⁴ is H, chloro, fluoro, trifluoromethyl, or methyl. Likewise, compounds of the formula (I-H) are provided where R¹ is methyl and R⁴ is H, halo or methyl. In one such aspect, compounds of the formula (I-H) are provided where R¹ is methyl and R⁴ is halo (e.g., fluoro or chloro) or methyl. In any variation of formula (I-H), in one aspect, the

bond indicates the presence of an E double bond configuration. In any variation of formula (I-H), in one aspect, the

bond indicates the presence of a Z double bond configuration.

In specific variations, compounds of the formula (I-H) have the formula:

or a salt or solvate thereof; wherein R¹ and R⁴ are defined as for formula (I-H). That is, variations of formula (I-H) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formulae (I-h1) and (I-h2) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formulae (I-h1) and (I-h2). Pharmaceutically acceptable salts of compounds of the formula (I-H), (I-h1) and (I-h2) are also provided.

Compounds of the formula (H-1) and (H-2) are also provided:

or a salt or solvate thereof, wherein R¹ is CH₃, —CH₂CH₂—C(CH₃)₂(OH), —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂F; R^(4a) is H or F; R^(4c) is H, CH₃, CF₃, Cl, F or —NHCH₃; R^(9b) is H or F; and R^(9c) is F, OCH₃, —CONH(CH₃) or —CON(CH₃)₂. In one embodiment of formula (H-1) and (H-2), R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; R^(4c) is CH₃, Cl, F, CF₃, or —NHCH₃; R^(9b) is H or F; and R^(9c) is F, OCH₃, —CONH(CH₃) or —CON(CH₃)₂. In a further embodiment, R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; R^(4c) is CH₃, Cl, F or —NHCH₃; R^(9b) is H; and R^(9c) is F, OCH₃.

Compounds of the formula (H-3) and (H-4) are also embraced,

or a salt or solvate thereof, wherein R¹ is CH₃, —CH₂CH₂—C(CH₃)₂(OH) or —CH₂CH₂F; R^(4a) is H or F; and R^(4c) is H, CH₃, Cl, F or —NHCH₃. In one embodiment of formula (H-3) and (H-4), R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H and R^(4c) is CH₃, Cl, F, CF₃, or —NHCH₃. In yet another variation, R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; R^(4c) is CH₃, CF₃, Cl or F.

In one variation, compounds of the formula (H-5) or (H-6) are provided

or a salt or solvate thereof, wherein R¹ is CH₃, —CH₂CH₂—C(CH₃)₂(OH), —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂F; R^(4a) is H or F; R^(4c) is H, CH₃, Cl, F, CF₃, or —NHCH₃; and R^(9c) is H, F, CH₃, CF₃, OCH₃, —CONH(CH₃) or —CON(CH₃)₂. In one variation of formula (H-5) and (H-6) R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; R^(4c) is CH₃, Cl, F, CF₃, or —NHCH₃; and R⁹ is H, F, CF₃, or CH₃. In a particular variation, R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; R^(4c) is CH₃, Cl or F; and R⁹ is H, CF₃, or CH₃.

In another variation, compounds of the formula (H-7) and (H-8) are provided:

or a salt or solvate thereof, wherein R¹ is CH₃, —CH₂CH₂—C(CH₃)₂(OH), —CH₂CF₃ or —CH₂CH₂F; R^(4a) is H or F; and R^(4c) is H, CH₃, CF₃, Cl, F or —NHCH₃. In one embodiment of formula (H-7) and (H-8), R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; and R^(4c) is CH₃, Cl, F, CF₃, or —NHCH₃. In one embodiment R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; and R^(4c) is CH₃, CF₃, Cl or F

The substituent groups R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c), R^(8d), R^(10a), R^(10b), R¹¹, R¹², m, q, Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ described herein as suitable for compounds of formula (I) are also suitable for compounds of formulae (I-A), (I-B), (I-C), (I-D), (I-E), (I-F), (I-b1), (I-b2), (I-c1), (I-c2), (I-d1), (I-d2), (I-e1), (I-e2), (I-f1) and (I-f2) when applicable. Likewise, substituent groups R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(10a), R^(10b), R¹¹, R¹², q, Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ described herein as suitable for compounds of formula (I) are also suitable for compounds of formulae (I-G), (I-g1), (I-g2), (I-H), (I-h1) and (I-h2) when applicable.

The invention also embraces compounds of the formula (III):

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein:

R¹ is H, hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, perhaloalkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl or carbonylalkylenealkoxy;

each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(3a) and R^(3b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is independently N, CH or CR⁴;

each m and q is independently 0 or 1;

each R⁴ is independently hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, carbonylalkoxy, thiol, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, carbonylalkylenealkoxy, alkylsulfonylamino or acyl;

each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c) and R^(8d) is independently H, hydroxyl, C₁-C₈ alkyl, or is taken together with the carbon to which it is attached and a geminal R⁸ to form a cycloalkyl moiety or a carbonyl moiety;

each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

R¹¹ is H, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl and the

bond indicates the presence of either an E or Z double bond configuration;

R¹² is H, halo, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₁-C₈ alkyl substituted with a carbonylalkoxy, carboxyl or acylamino moiety, C₂-C₈ alkenyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl; and

Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, alkoxy, aminoacyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, aminocarbonylalkoxy or acylamino;

provided that (i) when X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH and each R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a) and R^(10b) is hydrogen, the compound is other than a compound in Table A, and (ii) the compound is other than Compound 87. In another variation, the compounds of the invention, and methods of using the compounds and administering the compounds as detailed herein, encompass any of the compounds of the formula (III), including Compound 87. In another variation, the compounds of the invention, and methods of using the compounds and administering the compounds as detailed herein, encompass any of the compounds of the formula (III), including those listed in Table A. In another variation, the compounds of the invention, and methods of using the compounds and administering the compounds as detailed herein, encompass any of the compounds of the formula (III), including Compound 87 and those listed in Table A. The substituent groups R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c), R^(8d), R^(10a), R^(10b), R¹¹, R¹², m, q, Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ described herein as suitable for compounds of formula (I) are also suitable for compounds of formulae (III). Variations of formula (I) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (III) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (III).

In one variation, the compound is of the formula (III) where R¹ is H, hydroxyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, perhaloalkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl or carbonylalkylenealkoxy. In another variation, the compound is of the formula (III) where each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, hydroxyl, alkoxy or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety and each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, hydroxyl, alkoxy or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety. In some variations, the compound is of the formula (III) where R¹ is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl (e.g. methyl) and each R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a) and R^(10b) is H.

In one variation, the compound is of the formula (III), where at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than H. In one such variation, the compound is of the formula (I) where R¹¹ is substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl. For example, the compound in one aspect is of the formula (III) where R¹¹ is a substituted aryl (e.g. 4-fluorophenyl). In another aspect, the compound is of the formula (III) where R¹¹ is an unsubstituted aryl (e.g. phenyl). In another such variation, the compound is of the formula (III) where R¹² is halo, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₁-C₈ alkyl substituted with a carbonylalkoxy, carboxyl or acylamino moiety, C₂-C₈ alkenyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl. For example, the compound in one aspect is of the formula (III) where R¹² is halo, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ alkyl substituted with a carbonylalkoxy, carboxyl or acylamino moiety, or C₂-C₈ alkenyl. In one aspect, the compound is of the formula (III) where R¹² is halo (e.g., fluoro). In another aspect, the compound is of the formula (III) where R¹² is a substituted aryl (e.g., 4-fluorophenyl) or unsubstituted aryl (e.g. phenyl). In another aspect, the compound is of the formula (III) where R¹² is a C₁-C₈ alkyl substituted with a carbonylalkoxy, carboxyl or acylamino moiety (e.g., ethoxycarbonylmethyl, carboxymethyl or methylaminocarbonylmethyl). In still another aspect, the compound is of the formula (III) where R¹² is C₂-C₈ alkenyl (e.g., propen-1-yl). In another such variation, R¹¹ is substituted or unsubstituted aryl and R¹² is H. In yet another such variation, R¹¹ is H and R¹² is halo, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ alkyl substituted with a carbonylalkoxy, carboxyl or acylamino moiety, or C₂-C₈ alkenyl. In one particular variation, the compound is of the formula (III) where R¹¹ is substituted or unsubstituted aryl, R¹² is H, m is 0, q is 1, each R^(8a) and R^(8b) is H, and Q is carboxy or carbonylalkoxy. In another particular variation, the compound is of the formula (III) where R¹¹ is H, R¹² is halo, m and q are 0 and Q is a heteroaryl (e.g. a pyridyl such as 4-pyridyl). In another particular variation, the compound is of the formula (III) where R¹¹ is H, R¹² is substituted or unsubstituted aryl, C₁-C₈ alkyl substituted with a carbonylalkoxy, carboxyl or acylamino moiety, or C₂-C₈ alkenyl, m and q are 0 and Q is a substituted aryl (e.g., 4-fluorophenyl) or unsubstituted aryl (e.g. phenyl).

The invention also embraces compounds of the formula (V):

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein:

R¹ is H, hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, perhaloalkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl or carbonylalkylenealkoxy;

each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, nitro, substituted or unsubstituted amino, hydroxyl, alkoxy, acyloxy, acylamino, aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl or R^(3a) and R^(3b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is independently N, CH or CR⁴;

each m and q is independently 0 or 1;

each R⁴ is independently hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, carbonylalkoxy, thiol, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, carbonylalkylenealkoxy, alkylsulfonylamino or acyl;

each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c) and R^(8d) is independently H, hydroxyl, alkoxy, halo, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carboxy, carbonylalkoxy, or is taken together with a geminal R⁸ to form a moiety of the formula —OCH₂CH₂O—, or is taken together with the carbon to which it is attached and a geminal R⁸ to form a cycloalkyl moiety or a carbonyl moiety;

each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each R¹¹ and R¹² is independently H, halo, alkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carboxy, or carbonylalkoxy and the

bond indicates the presence of either an E or Z double bond configuration, or R¹¹ and R¹² are taken together to form a bond; and

Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, alkoxy, acyloxy, substituted or unsubstituted amino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylalkoxy, cyano, alkynyl, carboxy, carbonylalkoxy or acylamino.

In one variation, the compound is of the formula (V) where X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b), Q, q, m, R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c), R^(8d), R¹¹ and R¹² are as defined for formula (V), provided that (i) when X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH and each R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a) and R^(10b) is hydrogen, at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than hydrogen and R¹¹ and R¹² are not taken together to form a bond; and (ii) the compound is other than Compound 87. In one aspect, compounds of the formula (V) are provided where q and m are both 0 and at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is a substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, such as methyl. In another aspect, compounds of the formula (V) are provided where q and m are both 0 and at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is a substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, such as methyl, and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, such as phenyl, or a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, such as pyridyl. In another aspect, compounds of the formula (V) are provided where q and m are both 0, R¹¹ is H, R¹² is methyl and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, such as pyridyl. In a more particular variation of formula (V), q and m are both 0, R¹¹ is H, R¹² is methyl and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, such as pyridyl and one or more of the following structural features applies: (i) X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH; (ii) X⁹ is CH or CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo or an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl; (iii) R^(2a) and R^(2b) are both H; (iv) R¹ is methyl; (v) R^(3a) and R^(3b) are both H and (vi) R^(10a) and R^(10b) are both H. In one such variation, at least two or three or four or five or all of (i)-(vi) apply. When more than one of (i)-(vi) applies, the provisions may be combined in any manner. In another variation, the compounds provided herein, and methods of using the compounds and administering the compounds as detailed herein, encompass any of the compounds of the formula (V), including Compound 87. The substituent groups R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(10a), R^(10b), R¹¹, R¹², m, q, Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ described herein as suitable for compounds of formulae (I) and (III) are also suitable for compounds of formula (V). Variations of formulae (I) and (III) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (V) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (V).

In one variation, compounds of the formula (V) are provided, where X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b), q, m, and Q are as defined for formula (V), each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c) and R^(8d) is independently H, hydroxyl, C₁-C₈ alkyl, or is taken together with the carbon to which it is attached and a geminal R⁸ to form a cycloalkyl moiety or a carbonyl moiety; R¹¹ is H, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl and the

bond indicates the presence of either an E or Z double bond configuration; and R¹² is H, halo, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₁-C₈ alkyl substituted with a carbonylalkoxy, carboxyl or acylamino moiety, C₂-C₈ alkenyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl. In another variation, the compound is of the formula (V), where X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b), Q, q, m, R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c) and R^(8d) are as defined for formula (V), R¹¹ is H, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl and R¹² is H, halo, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl. In another variation, the compound is of the formula (V), where X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b), Q, q, m, R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c), R^(8d) and R¹¹ are as defined for formula (V) and R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl substituted with a carbonylalkoxy, carboxyl or acylamino moiety.

In one embodiment, provided is a compound of formula (V) where at least one R^(3a) and R^(3b) is aryl. In a particular variation of formula (V), at least one of R^(3a) and R^(3b) is phenyl.

In some embodiments, the compound of formula (V) has the formula (V-B):

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b), R^(11a), R¹², Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ are defined as for formula (V) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (V) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (V-B) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (V-B). In one variation, compounds of formula (V-B) are detailed herein, provided that (i) when X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH and each R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a) and R^(10b) is hydrogen, at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than hydrogen and R¹¹ and R¹² are not taken together to form a bond; and (ii) the compound is other than Compound 87. In another variation, compounds of formula (V-B), including Compound 87, and methods of using and administering such compounds are encompassed. In one aspect of formula (V-B), at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than H. In one such variation of formula (V-B), R¹¹ is H and R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl. In one aspect of formula (V-B), R¹¹ is H and R¹ is C₁-C₈ alkyl. In another variation of formula (V-B) at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than H and R¹ is C₁-C₈ alkyl. In one such variation, R¹² is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl. In one variation of formula (V-B), R¹² is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl and Q is other than a halo-substituted phenyl. In a more particular variation of formula (V-B), R¹¹ is H, R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl and R¹ is C₁-C₈ alkyl. In an even more particular variation of formula (V-B), R¹¹ is H, R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl, X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo and each X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ is CH. In another variation of formula (V-B), R¹¹ is H, R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl, X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo, each X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ is CH, R¹ is alkyl and each R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b) is H. In any variation or aspect of formula (V-B) detailed herein, in one embodiment, the compound of formula (V-B) is in the E configuration. Similarly, in any variation or aspect of formula (V-B) detailed herein, in another embodiment, the compound of formula (V-B) is in the Z configuration. For example, provided are compounds of formula (V-B) where R¹¹ is H, R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl, X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo, each X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ is CH and the compound is in the E configuration. Likewise, also provided are compounds of formula (V-B) where R¹¹ is H, R¹² is C₁-C₈ alkyl, X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo, each X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ is CH and the compound is in the Z configuration.

In one embodiment, the compound is of the formula (V-B), where R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b), Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ are defined for formula (V); R¹¹ is H, hydroxyl, alkoxy, halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carboxyl, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl and R¹² and Q are independently a substituted or unsubstituted aryl or substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl. In one variation, R¹² and Q are the same substituted or unsubstituted aryl or heteroaryl moiety, such as when both R¹² and Q are phenyl.

In some embodiments, the compound of formula (V) has the formula (V-G):

or a salt or solvate thereof; where X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c), R^(8d), R^(10a), R^(10b) q, m and Q are as defined for formula (V). In one variation, the compound is of the formula (V-G), provided that (i) when q and m are 0, each R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), and R^(10b) is H, each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is independently CH or CR⁴ where R⁴ is methyl, fluoro or CF₃, and Q is phenyl, substituted phenyl, pyridyl or pyrimidyl, the compound is other than a compound specifically described in WO 2008/123796 A2, and (ii) the compound is other than Compound 478, Compound 490 and Compound 495. In another variation, the compounds of the invention, and methods of using the compounds and administering the compounds as detailed herein, encompass any of the compounds of the formula (V-G), including Compound 478, Compound 490 and Compound 495. In another variation, the compounds of the invention, and methods of using the compounds and administering the compounds as detailed herein, encompass any of the compounds of the formula (V-G), including compounds specifically described in WO 2008/123796 A2.

In some embodiments, the compound of formula (V) has the formula (V-H):

or a salt or solvate thereof; where R¹ and Q are as defined for formula (V). In one variation, Q of formula (V-H) is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, such as phenyl. In one aspect, Q of formula (V-H) is a mono-substituted phenyl, such as a mono-halo substituted phenyl, for example 4-fluoro-phenyl. In another variation Q of formula (V-H) is a mono-substituted phenyl and R¹ is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl such as methyl.

The invention further embraces compounds of the formula (IV):

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein:

R¹ is H, hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, perhaloalkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl or carbonylalkylenealkoxy;

each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(3a) and R^(3b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is independently N, CH or CR⁴;

each R⁴ is independently hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, carbonylalkoxy, thiol, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, carbonylalkylenealkoxy, alkylsulfonylamino or acyl;

each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each R^(13a) and R^(13b) is independently H, C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl;

each R^(14a) and R^(14b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carbonylalkoxy, carboxyl, acylamino or R^(14a) and R^(14b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a cycloalkyl moiety, and;

Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, alkoxy, aminoacyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, aminocarbonylalkoxy or acylamino and the

bond indicates the presence of either an E or Z double bond configuration.

In one variation, compounds of the formula (IV) are provided, where X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b), Q, R^(13a), R^(13b) are as defined for formula (IV) and R^(14a) and R^(14b) are independently H, halo, alkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₁-C₈ alkyl substituted with a carbonylalkoxy, carboxyl or acylamino moiety, C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl.

The substituent groups R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(10a), R^(10b), Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ described herein as suitable for compounds of formula (I) or formula (III) are also suitable for compounds of formulae (IV). Variations of formula (I) and formula (III) with regard to substituent groups R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b), Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (IV) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (IV).

In some embodiments, the compound is of the formula (IV) where at least one of R^(13a) and R^(13b) is H. In one such variation, each R^(13a) and R^(13b) is H. In another variation, one of R^(13a) and R^(13b) is H and the other one of R^(13a) and R^(13b) is C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl. In a particular variation, the compound is of the formula (IV) where each R^(13a) and R^(13b) is H and Q is substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl or substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl.

In some embodiments, the compound is of the formula (IV) where at least one of R^(14a) and R^(14b) is H. In one such variation, each R^(14a) and R^(14b) is H. In another such variation, one of R^(14a) and R^(14b) is H and the other one of R^(14a) and R^(14b) is substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carbonylalkoxy, carboxyl or acylamino. For example, the one of R^(14a) and R^(14b) that is not H is a an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl (e.g. methyl, ethyl or propyl), a C₁-C₈ alkyl substituted with hydroxy (e.g. 2-hydroxyethyl), a carbonylalkoxy, a carboxyl or an acylamino group. In one particular variation, the compound is of the formula (IV) where each R^(13a) and R^(13b) is H and each R^(14a) and R^(14b) is H. In a further variation, the compound is of the formula (IV) where each R^(13a) and R^(13b) is H, each R^(14a) and R^(14b) is H and Q is substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl or substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl.

In some embodiments, the compound is of the formula (IV) where each R^(14a) and R^(14b) is independently substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carbonylalkoxy, carboxyl, acylamino or R^(14a) and R^(14b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a cycloalkyl moiety. In one such variation, each R^(14a) and R^(14b) is independently substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl. For example, each R^(14a) and R^(14b) is methyl or one of R^(14a) and R^(14b) is methyl and the other is a substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl other than methyl. In another such variation, R^(14a) and R^(14b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a cycloalkyl moiety. For example, R^(14a) and R^(14b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a cyclopropyl moiety. In some variations, the compound is of the formula (IV) where each R^(14a) and R^(14b) is independently substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carbonylalkoxy, carboxyl, acylamino or R^(14a) and R^(14b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a cycloalkyl moiety, each R^(13a) and R^(13b) is H and Q is substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl or substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl.

The invention also embraces compounds of the formula (VI):

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein:

R¹ is H, hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, perhaloalkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl or carbonylalkylenealkoxy;

each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, nitro, substituted or unsubstituted amino, hydroxyl, alkoxy, acyloxy, acylamino, aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl or R^(3a) and R^(3b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is independently N, CH or CR⁴;

each R⁴ is independently hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, carbonylalkoxy, thiol, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, carbonylalkylenealkoxy, alkylsulfonylamino or acyl;

each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each R^(13a) and R^(13b) is independently H, halo, alkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carboxy, or carbonylalkoxy;

each R^(14a) and R^(14b) is independently H, halo, alkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carbonylalkoxy, carboxyl, acylamino or R^(14a) and R^(14b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a cycloalkyl moiety; and

Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, alkoxy, acyloxy, substituted or unsubstituted amino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylalkoxy, cyano, alkynyl, carboxy, carbonylalkoxy or acylamino and the

bond indicates the presence of either an E or Z double bond configuration.

In one variation, the compound is of the formula (VI) where X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b), Q, R^(13a), R^(13b), R^(14a) and R^(14b) are as defined for formula (VI), provided that the compound is other than Compound 132. In another variation, the compounds of the invention, and methods of using the compounds and administering the compounds as detailed herein, encompass any of the compounds of the formula (VI), including Compound 132. The substituent groups R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b), R^(13a), R^(13b), R^(14a), R^(14b), Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ described herein as suitable for compounds of formula (IV) are also suitable for compounds of formula (VI). Variations of formula (IV) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (VI) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (VI).

In one variation, compounds of the formula (VI) are provided, where X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b), Q, R^(13a) and R^(13b) are as defined for formula (VI) and each R^(14a) and R^(14b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carbonylalkoxy, carboxyl, acylamino or R^(14a) and R^(14b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a cycloalkyl moiety.

In one embodiment, provided is a compound of formula (VI) where at least one R^(3a) and R^(3b) is aryl. In a particular variation of formula (VI), at least one of R^(3a) and R^(3b) is phenyl.

In one variation, compounds of the formula (VIA) are provided:

or a salt or solvate thereof; where X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b), Q, R^(13a), R^(13b), R^(14a), R^(14b) are as defined for formula (VI), or a variation thereof, and q is 0 or 1.

In another aspect, the invention embraces compounds of the formula (II):

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein:

R¹ is H, hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, perhaloalkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl or carbonylalkylenealkoxy;

each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety;

each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(3a) and R^(3b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety;

each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is independently N, CH or CR⁴;

each m and q is independently 0 or 1;

each R⁴ is independently hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, carbonylalkylenealkoxy, alkylsulfonylamino or acyl;

each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c) and R^(8d) is independently H, hydroxyl, C₁-C₈ alkyl, or is taken together with the carbon to which it is attached and a geminal R⁸ to form a cycloalkyl moiety or a carbonyl moiety;

each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety;

each R^(11a) and R^(12a) is independently H, hydroxyl, or C₁-C₈ alkyl; or R^(11a) and R^(12a) may betaken together to represent a bond;

R^(11b) and R^(12b) are taken together with the carbon atoms to which they are attached to form a substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkenyl or substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl moiety; and

Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkenyl or substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, alkoxy, aminoacyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, aminocarbonylalkoxy or acylamino.

In one variation of formula (II), q is 0 and m are both 0 and R^(11a) and R^(12a) are each H. In another variation of formula (II), q and m are both 0, R^(11a) and R^(12a) are each H and R^(11b) and R^(12b) are taken together with the carbon atoms to which they are attached to form a substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl moiety. In yet another variation of formula (II), q and m are both 0, R^(11a) and R^(12a) are each H, R^(11b) and R^(12b) are taken together with the carbon atoms to which they are attached to form a substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl moiety and at least one of (i)-(iv) applies: (i) X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is a C₁-C₈ alkyl (e.g., methyl) or halo (e.g., chloro); (ii) R¹ is a C₁-C₈ alkyl (e.g., methyl); (iii) each X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ is CH; and (iv) each R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a) and R^(10b), is H. Preferably, when Q is a cycloalkyl moiety, it is an unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl moiety (e.g., cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl and cyclohexyl).

In one variation of formula (II), R^(11a) and R^(12a) are taken together to form a bond. In a particular variation of formula (II), R^(11a) and R^(12a) are taken together to form a double bond (such that the bond between the carbon bearing R^(11a) and R^(11b) and the carbon bearing R^(12a) and R^(12b) is a double bond) and together with R^(11b) and R^(12b) are taken to form a cycloalkenyl moiety (e.g., cyclopropenyl, cyclobutenyl, cyclopentenyl and cyclohexenyl). In a further variation of formula (II), R^(11a) and R^(12a) are taken together to form a double bond and together with R^(11b) and R^(12b) are taken to form a cycloalkenyl moiety and at least of of (i)-(v) applies: (i) at least one of X⁷-X¹⁰ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo (e.g., when X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is chloro); (ii) R¹ is C₁-C₈ alkyl (e.g., methyl); (iii) Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkenyl or substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl; (iv) q and m are both 0; and (v) each R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a) and R^(10b) is H.

In any variation or aspect of formula (II) detailed herein where R^(11a) and R^(12a) are taken together to form a double bond such that R^(11a) and R^(12a) are taken together with R^(11b) and R^(12b) to form a cycloalkenyl moiety. In one embodiment, the compound of formula (II) is in the E configuration. Similarly, in any variation or aspect of formula (II) detailed herein, in another embodiment, the compound of formula (II) is in the Z configuration.

In certain embodiments, the compound of formula (II) has the structure:

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(10a), R^(10b), R¹¹, R¹², q, Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ are defined as for formula (II) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (II) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (II-A) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (II-A).

In some such embodiments, R^(11a) and R^(12a) are taken together to form a bond and the compound of formula (II-A) has the structure:

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(10a), R^(10b), R¹¹, R¹², q, Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ are defined as for formula (II-A) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (II-A) and formula (II) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (II-a1) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (II-a1).

In other embodiments, the compound of formula (II) has the structure:

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b), R^(11a), R^(11b), R^(12a), R^(12b), Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ are defined as for formula (II) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (II) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (II-B) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (II-B).

In some such embodiments, R^(11a) and R^(12a) are taken together to form a bond and the compound of formula (II-B) has the structure:

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b), R^(11a), R^(12b), q, Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ are defined as for formula (II-B) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (II-B) and formula (II) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (II-b1) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (II-b1).

In other embodiments, the compound of formula (II) has the structure:

or a salt or solvate thereof; wherein R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(10a), R^(10b), R^(11a), R^(11b), R^(12a), R^(12b), Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ are defined as for formula (II) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (II) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (II-C) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (II-C).

In some such embodiments, R^(11a) and R^(12a) are taken together to form a bond and the compound of formula (II-C) has the structure:

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(10a), R^(10b), R^(11b), R^(12b), Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ are defined as for formula (II-C) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (II-C) and formula (II) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (II-c1) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (II-c1).

In further embodiments, the compound of formula (II) has the structure:

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8c), R^(8d), R^(10a), R^(11a), R^(11b), R^(12a), R^(12b), Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ are defined as for formula (II) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (II) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (II-D) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (II-D).

In some such embodiments, R^(11a) and R^(12a) are taken together to form a bond and the compound of formula (II-D) has the structure:

or a salt or solvate thereof; wherein R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8c), R^(8d), R^(10a), R^(10b), R^(11b), R^(12b), Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ are defined as for formula (II-D) and, where applicable, any variation thereof detailed herein. That is, variations of formula (II) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (II-d1) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (II-d1).

The substituent groups R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c), R^(8d), R^(10a), R^(10b), R^(11a), R^(11b), R^(12a), R^(12b), m, q, Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ described herein as suitable for compounds of formula (II) are also suitable for compounds of formulae (II-A), (II-B), (II-C), (II-D), (II-a1), (II-b1), (II-c1) and (II-d1).

The invention also embraces compounds of the formula (VII):

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein:

R¹ is H, hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, perhaloalkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl or carbonylalkylenealkoxy;

each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, nitro, substituted or unsubstituted amino, hydroxyl, alkoxy, acyloxy, acylamino, aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl or R^(3a) and R^(3b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is independently N, CH or CR⁴;

each m and q is independently 0 or 1;

each R⁴ is independently hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, carbonylalkylenealkoxy, alkylsulfonylamino or acyl;

each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c) and R^(8d) is independently H, hydroxyl, alkoxy, halo, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carboxy, carbonylalkoxy, or is taken together with a geminal R⁸ to form a moiety of the formula —OCH₂CH₂O—, or is taken together with the carbon to which it is attached and a geminal R⁸ to form a cycloalkyl moiety or a carbonyl moiety;

each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each R^(11a) and R^(12a) is independently H, hydroxyl, alkoxy, halo, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carboxy, or carbonylalkoxy; or R^(11a) and R^(12a) are taken together to represent a bond;

R^(11b) and R^(12b) are taken together with the carbon atoms to which they are attached to form a substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkenyl or substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl moiety; and

Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkenyl or substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, alkoxy, acyloxy, substituted or unsubstituted amino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylalkoxy, cyano, alkynyl, carboxy, carbonylalkoxy or acylamino.

In one variation, the compound is of the formula (VII) where X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a), R^(10b), Q, q, m, R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c), R^(8d), R^(11a), R^(11b), R^(12a) and R^(12b) are as defined for formula (VII), provided that the compound is other than 2-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)cyclohexanol. In another variation, the compounds of the invention, and methods of using the compounds and administering the compounds as detailed herein, encompass any of the compounds of the formula (VII), including 2-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)cyclohexanol. The substituent groups R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c), R^(8d), R^(10a), R^(10b), R^(11a), R^(11b), R^(12a), R^(12b), m, q, Q, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, and X¹⁰ described herein as suitable for compounds of formula (II) are also suitable for compounds of formula (VII). Variations of formula (II) detailed throughout, where applicable, apply to formula (VII) the same as if each and every variation were specifically and individually listed for formula (VII).

In one variation, compounds of the formula (VII) are provided, where X⁷, X⁸, X⁹, X¹⁰, R¹, R^(11b), R^(12b), q, m, and Q are as defined for formula (VII), each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety; each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(3a) and R^(3b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety; each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c) and R^(8d) is independently H, hydroxyl, C₁-C₈ alkyl, or is taken together with the carbon to which it is attached and a geminal R⁸ to form a cycloalkyl moiety or a carbonyl moiety; each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety; and each R^(11a) and R^(12a) is independently H, hydroxyl, or C₁-C₈ alkyl; or R^(11a) and R^(12a) are taken together to represent a bond.

In one embodiment, provided is a compound of formula (VII) where at least one R^(3a) and R^(3b) is aryl. In a particular variation of formula (VII), at least one of R^(3a) and R^(3b) is phenyl.

The invention also embraces compounds of the formula (VIII):

or a salt or solvate thereof;

wherein:

R¹ is H, hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, perhaloalkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl or carbonylalkylenealkoxy;

each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, nitro, substituted or unsubstituted amino, hydroxyl, alkoxy, acyloxy, acylamino, aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl or R^(3a) and R^(3b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety;

each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is independently N, CH or CR⁴;

each m and q is independently 0 or 1;

each R⁴ is independently hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, carbonylalkoxy, thiol, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, carbonylalkylenealkoxy, alkylsulfonylamino or acyl;

each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c), R^(8d), R^(8e) and R^(8f) is independently H, hydroxyl, alkoxy, halo, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carboxy, carbonylalkoxy, is taken together with the carbon to which it is attached and a geminal R^(8(a-f)) to form a cycloalkyl moiety or a carbonyl moiety, is taken together with a geminal R^(8(a-f)) to form a moiety of the formula —OCH₂CH₂O—, a methylene or a substituted methylene, is taken together with a vicinal R^(8(a-f)) and the carbon atoms to which they are attached to form a substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkenyl or substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl moiety or is taken together with a vicinal R^(8(a-f)) to form a bond, provided that (i) at least one of R^(8c) and R^(8d) is taken together with a vicinal R^(8(a-f)) and the carbon atoms to which they are attached to form a substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkenyl or substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl moiety or is taken together with a vicinal R^(8(a-f)) to form a bond, and (ii) when an R^(8(a-f)) is taken together with a vicinal R⁸ to form a bond, the geminal R^(8(a-f)) is other than hydroxyl;

each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety; and

Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, alkoxy, acyloxy, substituted or unsubstituted amino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylalkoxy, cyano, alkynyl, carboxy, carbonylalkoxy or acylamino.

In another variation, compounds of the Formulae or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof are embraced, provided that the compounds are other than compounds in Table B or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In a particular variation, compounds of the formula (I) are embraced, provided the compounds are other than any of compounds 1x-99x. In one variation, compounds of the formula (III) are embraced, provided the compounds are other than any of compounds 1x-99x. In another variation, compounds of the formula (V) are embraced, provided the compounds are other than any of compounds 1x-129x. In still another variation, compounds of the formula (VIII) are embraced, provided the compounds are other than any of compounds 1x-129x. In yet another variation, compounds of the formula (IV) are embraced, provided the compounds are other than compound 130x. In another variation, compounds of the formula (VI) are embraced, provided the compounds are other than compound 130x. In still a further variation, compounds of the formulae detailed herein are provided, wherein the compounds include a compound of Table B or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In addition, methods provided herein, including methods of treatment as detailed herein, in one variation employ compounds according to the formulae detailed herein, including compounds of Table B.

TABLE B No. Compound Name  1x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[(1Z)-2-phenylethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole  2x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[(1E)-2-phenylethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole  3x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[(1E)-2-(4-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole  4x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[(1Z)-2-(3-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole  5x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[(1E)-2-(2-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole  6x 2-(1,1-dimethylethyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-5-[(1Z)-2-(3-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole  7x 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[(1Z)-2-phenylethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole  8x 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[(1E)-2-phenylethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole  9x 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[(1E)-2-(4-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 10x 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[(1Z)-2-(3-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 11x 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[(1E)-2-(2-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 12x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[(1Z)-2-phenylethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 13x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[(1E)-2-phenylethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 14x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[(1Z)-2-(3-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 15x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[(1E)-2-(4-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 16x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-2-(phenylmethyl)-5-[(1Z)-2-(3-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 17x 8-fluoro-5-[(1E)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)ethenyl]-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 18x 8-fluoro-5-[(1Z)-2-(3-fluorophenyl)ethenyl]-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 19x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[(1E)-2-[4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 20x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[(1Z)-2-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 21x 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[(1E)-2-[4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]ethenyl]-1H- Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 22x 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-5-[(1Z)-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)ethenyl]-2-methyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 23x 4-[(1Z)-2-(8-fluoro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)ethenyl]-N,N- dimethyl-Benzenamine 24x 5-[(1E)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)ethenyl]-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 25x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 26x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-5-[2-(4-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 27x 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-5-[2-(4-methoxyphenyl)ethenyl]-2-methyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 28x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-5-(2-phenylethenyl)-2-(3-pyridinylmethyl)-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 29x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[2-(4-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 30x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-phenylethenyl)-8-(trifluoromethyl)-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 31x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(3-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 32x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-2-[1-[(4-methylphenyl)sulfonyl]-4-piperidinyl]-5-[2-(2- pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 33x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methoxy-2-methyl-5-[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 34x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-2-(4-piperidinyl)-5-[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 35x 8-fluoro-5-[2-(4-fluorophenyl)ethenyl]-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 36x 9-hydroxy-2-methyl-3-[2-[1,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-5-(2-phenylethenyl)-2H-pyrido[4,3- b]indol-2-yl]ethyl]-4H-Pyrido[1,2-a]pyrimidin-4-one 37x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methoxy-2-methyl-5-[2-(4-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 38x N,N-dimethyl-4-[2-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)ethenyl]- Benzenamine 39x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-5-(2-phenylethenyl)-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 40x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[2-(3-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 41x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-2-[1-[(4-methylphenyl)sulfonyl]-4-piperidinyl]-5-[2-(4- pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 42x 8-bromo-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 43x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-2-(4-piperidinyl)-5-[2-(3-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 44x 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-[4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 45x 2,9-dimethyl-3-[2-[1,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-5-(2-phenylethenyl)-2H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-2- yl]ethyl]-4H-Pyrido[1,2-a]pyrimidin-4-one 46x 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(4-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 47x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-5-[2-(4-methoxyphenyl)ethenyl]-2,8-dimethyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 48x 1,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-5-(2-phenylethenyl)-2H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole-2-carboxylic acid ethyl ester 49x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methoxy-2-methyl-5-[2-(3-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 50x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(4-methylphenyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 51x 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 52x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-2-(4-piperidinyl)-5-[2-(4-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 53x 5-[2-(4-ethylphenyl)ethenyl]-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 54x 6,7,8,9-tetrahydro-2-methyl-3-[2-[1,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-5-(2-phenylethenyl)-2H- pyrido[4,3-b]indol-2-yl]ethyl]-4H-Pyrido[1,2-a]pyrimidin-4-one 55x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(4-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-8-(trifluoromethyl)-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 56x 5-[2-(4-fluorophenyl)ethenyl]-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 57x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-2-[(4-methylphenyl)sulfonyl]-5-(2-phenylethenyl)-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 58x 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(3-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 59x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-phenylethenyl)-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 60x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-8-(trifluoromethyl)-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 61x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-2-(1-methyl-4-piperidinyl)-5-[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H- Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 62x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[2-[4-(1-methylethyl)phenyl]ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 63x 1-[2-[1,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-5-(2-phenylethenyl)-2H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-2-yl]ethyl]-2- Imidazolidinone 64x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(4-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole-8-carboxylic acid 65x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[2-[4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 66x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-5-(2-phenylethenyl)-2-[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 67x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(3-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-8-(trifluoromethyl)-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 68x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[2-(4-methylphenyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 69x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole-8-carbonitrile 70x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-2-(1-methyl-4-piperidinyl)-5-[2-(3-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H- Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 71x 5-[2-[4-(1,1-dimethylethyl)phenyl]ethenyl]-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 72x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-5-[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 73x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(4-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 74x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(4-methylphenyl)ethenyl]-8-(trifluoromethyl)-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 75x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-5-(2-phenylethenyl)-2-[2-(4-pyridinyl)ethyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 76x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[2-(6-methyl-3-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 77x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methoxy-2-methyl-5-(2-phenylethenyl)-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 78x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-8-(3-pyridinyl)-5-[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 79x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-2-(1-methyl-4-piperidinyl)-5-[2-(4-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H- Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 80x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 81x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-5-[2-(3-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 82x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[2-(2-pyrazinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 83x 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(4-methylphenyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 84x 5-hydroxy-6-methyl-4-[[1,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-5-(2-phenylethenyl)-2H-pyrido[4,3- b]indol-2-yl]methyl]-3-Pyridinemethanol 85x 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(6-methyl-3-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 86x 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-phenylethenyl)-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 87x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-8-(phenylsulfonyl)-5-[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 88x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-2-[(4-methylphenyl)sulfonyl]-5-[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethenyl]-1H- Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 89x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[3-(4-methylphenyl)-2-propen-1-yl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 90x 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[(2E)-3-phenyl-2-propen-1-yl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 91x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-5-[3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-2-propen-1-yl]-2,8-dimethyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 92x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[(2Z)-3-phenyl-2-propen-1-yl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 93x 5-[3-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-propen-1-yl]-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 94x 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[(2Z)-3-phenyl-2-propen-1-yl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 95x 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(3-phenyl-2-propen-1-yl)-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 96x 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[3-(4-methylphenyl)-2-propen-1-yl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 97x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methoxy-2-methyl-5-[3-(4-methylphenyl)-2-propen-1-yl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 98x 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[(2E)-3-phenyl-2-propen-1-yl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 99x 5-[(1Z)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)-1-propen-1-yl]-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 100x  2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[3-(2-pyridinyl)-2-propyn-1-yl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 101x  2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-phenylethynyl)-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 102x  5-[2-(4-fluorophenyl)ethynyl]-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 103x  8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(4-pyridinyl)ethynyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 104x  2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethynyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 105x  2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[2-(3-pyridinyl)ethynyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 106x  2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[2-[2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]ethynyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 107x  8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-phenylethynyl)-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 108x  8-fluoro-5-[2-(4-fluorophenyl)ethynyl]-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 109x  2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-5-[2-(3-methoxyphenyl)ethynyl]-2,8-dimethyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 110x  6-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(3-pyridinyl)ethynyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 111x  5-[2-(3-fluorophenyl)ethynyl]-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 112x  2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(3-pyridinyl)ethynyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 113x  2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[2-(4-pyridinyl)ethynyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 114x  5-[2-(2-fluorophenyl)ethynyl]-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 115x  8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethynyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 116x  8-fluoro-5-[2-(3-fluorophenyl)ethynyl]-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 117x  2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-5-[2-(2-methoxyphenyl)ethynyl]-2,8-dimethyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 118x  2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[2-[4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]ethynyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 119x  2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(4-pyridinyl)ethynyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 120x  2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(3-pyridinyl)ethynyl]-8-(trifluoromethyl)-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 121x  2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-5-[2-(4-methoxyphenyl)ethynyl]-2,8-dimethyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 122x  8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(3-pyridinyl)ethynyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 123x  8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-[4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]ethynyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 124x  2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-phenylethynyl)-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 125x  2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[2-(2-pyridinyl)ethynyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 126x  2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-[2-[3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]ethynyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3- b]indole 127x  2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-[2-(5-pyrimidinyl)ethynyl]-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 128x  8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-5-[2-(4-methoxyphenyl)ethynyl]-2-methyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole 129x  N,N-dimethyl-4-[2-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)ethynyl]- Benzenamine 130x  5-[2-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-propen-1-yl]-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-Pyrido[4,3-b]indole

In compounds of formulae (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) and (VIII), R¹ is H, hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, perhaloalkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl or carbonylalkylenealkoxy. In specific embodiments, R¹ is a substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl or substituted or unsubstituted aryl. In more specific embodiments, R¹ is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl such as methyl and cyclopropyl.

In certain embodiments, compounds of formulae (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) and (VIII) are provided where R¹ is selected from the following moieties:

In compounds of formulae (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) and (VIII), the ring comprising N, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(10a), R^(10b), R^(3a) and R^(3b) K is sometimes referred to herein as the C-ring.

In compounds of formulae (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) and (VIII), each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety. In specific embodiments, each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, methyl, fluoro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety. In a specific embodiment, R^(2a) and R^(2b) are both H.

In compounds of formulae (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) and (VIII), each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety. In specific embodiments, each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H or fluoro. In another specific embodiment, R^(3a) and R^(3b) are both H. In a further specific embodiment, R^(3a) and R^(3b) are both H and R^(2a) and R^(2b) are both H.

In compounds of formulae (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) and (VIII), each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety. In specific embodiments, each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, halo, hydroxyl or methyl or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety. In another specific embodiment, R^(10a) and R^(10b) are both H. In a further specific embodiment, R^(10a) and R^(10b) are both H and R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a) and R^(3b) are each H.

In compounds of formulae (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) and (VIII), the ring comprising X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is sometimes referred to herein as the A-ring. In compounds of formulae (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) and (VIII), each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is independently N, CH or CR⁴. In certain embodiments, each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is CH or CR⁴, such that the A-ring is an optionally substituted phenyl ring. In specific embodiments, X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo or alkyl and X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH. In other embodiments, one of X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is N, and the others are CH or CR⁴, such that the A-ring is an optionally substituted pyridine ring. In further embodiments, two of X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ are N, and the others are CH or CR⁴, such that the A-ring is an optionally substituted pyrimidine or pyrazine ring. In one variation of formula (I), X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo or alkyl, X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH and R¹² is other than H. In one variation of formula (II), X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo or alkyl, X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH and either (a) R^(11a) and R^(12a) are both H and R^(11b) and R^(12b) are taken together to form a substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl; or (b) R^(11a) and R^(12a) are taken together to form a double bond and together with R^(11b) and R^(12b) form a cycloalkenyl moiety.

In compounds of formulae (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) and (VIII), each R⁴, where present, is independently hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, carbonylalkylenealkoxy, alkylsulfonylamino or acyl. In one variation, at least one of X⁷-X¹⁰ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is halo. In a particular variation, one of X⁷-X¹⁰ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is chloro and the others are CH. In a specific variation, X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH and X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is chloro.

In certain embodiments of formulae (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) and (VIII), each R⁴, where present, is independently hydroxyl, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, alkylsulfonylamino or acyl. In further embodiments, each R⁴ is independently hydroxyl, halo, C₁-C₄ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, or C₁-C₄ alkoxy; or in still a further variation, each R⁴ is independently halo, unsubstituted C₁-C₄ alkyl or C₁-C₄ perhaloalkyl.

In specific embodiments, the A-ring is a phenyl, pyridyl, pyrimidinyl or pyrazinyl ring, optionally substituted with 0-2 R⁴ groups (i.e., (R⁴)_(n)) where n is 0, 1 or 2. In some such embodiments, n is 1 or 2 and each R⁴ is independently halo, methyl or CF₃.

In compounds of formulae (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) and (VIII), each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c) and R^(8d), where present, is independently H, hydroxyl, C₁-C₈ alkyl or is taken together with the carbon to which it is attached and a geminal R⁸ to form a cycloalkyl moiety or a carbonyl moiety. In specific embodiments, each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c) and R^(8d), where present, is independently H, hydroxyl, methyl or is taken together with the carbon to which it is attached and a geminal R⁸ to form a carbonyl moiety. In another specific embodiment, each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c) and R^(8d), where present, is H.

In specific embodiments of formulae (I), (II) and (III), q is 0 and m is 0. In other embodiments, q is 1 and m is 0. In compounds of formula (I), when m is 0, the group Q is directly bonded to the carbon atom bearing R¹², and R^(8c) and R^(8d) and the carbon to which they are attached are absent. In compounds of formula (II), when m is 0, the group Q is directly bonded to the carbon atom bearing R^(12a) and R^(12b), and R^(8c) and R^(8d) and the carbon to which they are attached are absent.

In further embodiments of formulae (I), (II) and (III), q is 0 and m is 1. When q is 0, R^(8a) and R^(8b) and the carbon to which they are attached are absent.

In certain preferred embodiments of formulae (I), (II) and (III), q is 0, and m is 0. In other embodiments, q is 1, and m is 0. In other embodiments, q is 0, and m is 1.

In compounds of formula (I), R¹¹ is H, C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, and R¹² is H, C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl. In one variation, compounds are of the formula (I) where R¹¹ is H or C₁-C₈ alkyl, and R¹² is H, C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl. In some embodiments, each R¹¹ and R¹² is independently H or optionally substituted C₁-C₈ alkyl. In certain embodiments, each R¹¹ and R¹² is independently H or C₁-C₄ alkyl. In specific embodiments, each R¹¹ and R¹² is independently H or methyl. In other embodiments, R¹¹ is H or C₁-C₄ alkyl and R¹² is C₁-C₄ perhaloalkyl, preferably trifluoromethyl. In further embodiments, R¹¹ is H or Me, and R¹² is Me, Et, cyclopropyl or CF₃. In some embodiments, the olefin bearing substituents R¹¹ and R¹² has the trans-orientation; in other embodiments, the olefin has the cis-orientation.

In some embodiments of formula (II), each R^(11a) and R^(12a) is independently H, hydroxyl, or C₁-C₈ alkyl. In certain embodiments, each R^(11a) and R^(12a) is independently H or C₁-C₄ alkyl. In specific embodiments, each R^(11a) and R^(12a) is independently H or methyl. In other embodiments, R^(11a) and R^(12a) may be taken together to represent a bond, such that the bond between the carbon atoms to which R^(11a) and R^(12a) are attached is a double bond, and the ring formed between R^(11b) and R^(12b) is an unsaturated carbocyclic or heterocyclic ring.

In compounds of formula (II), R^(11b) and R^(12b) are taken together with the carbon atoms to which they are attached to form a substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkenyl or substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl moiety. In some embodiments, when R^(11b) and R^(12b) are taken together to form a cycloalkenyl ring, R^(11a) and R^(12a) are taken together to represent a bond.

In certain embodiment of formula (II), R^(11b) and R^(12b) are taken together with the carbon atoms to which they are attached to form an optionally substituted cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl or cyclohexyl ring. In some such embodiments, the cycloalkyl ring is substituted with hydroxyl, C₁-C₄ alkyl, or oxo (═O). In other embodiments, the cycloalkyl ring is unsubstituted.

In other embodiment of formula (II), R^(11b) and R^(12b) are taken together with the carbon atoms to which they are attached to form an optionally substituted cyclopropenyl, cyclobutenyl, cyclopentenyl or cyclohexenyl ring. In some such embodiments, R^(11a) and R^(12a) are taken together to represent a bond between the carbon atoms to which they are attached. In some embodiments, the cycloalkenyl ring is optionally substituted with hydroxyl, C₁-C₄ alkyl, or oxo (═O). In other embodiments, the cycloalkenyl ring is unsubstituted.

In further embodiments, R^(11b) and R^(12b) are taken together with the carbon atoms to which they are attached to form an optionally substituted heterocyclic ring containing one or more heteroatoms selected from the group consisting of N, O and S, which heterocyclic ring may be saturated or unsaturated.

In certain variations of formula (II), R^(11b) and R^(12b) are taken together with the carbon atoms to which they are attached to form a cycloalkyl or cycloalkenyl ring selected from the following structures, each of which may be optionally substituted:

In compounds of formulae (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) and (VIII), Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, alkoxy, aminoacyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, aminocarbonylalkoxy or acylamino. In one variation, compounds are of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) where Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkenyl or substituted or a unsubstituted heterocyclyl. In certain embodiments, Q is a substituted or unsubstituted 5- or 6-membered aryl or heteroaryl. In some such embodiments, Q is a substituted or unsubstituted phenyl, pyridyl or pyrimidinyl ring. When Q is substituted, it is frequently substituted with from 1-3 substituents selected from group consisting of halo, C₁-C₄ alkyl, C₁-C₄ perhaloalkyl, and C₁-C₄ alkoxy.

In a particular variation of formulae (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) and (VIII), Q is a substituted heteroaryl, a monosubstituted aryl group substituted with a chloro or alkyl group or a di- or tri-substituted aryl moiety. For instance, Q in one variation is selected from the group consisting of 4-methoxy-3-fluorophenyl, 3,4-di-fluorophenyl, 4-chloro-3-fluorophenyl, 3,4-dichlorophenyl, 3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl, 2,4-difluorophenyl, 2,4-dichlorophenyl, 2,4,6-trifluorophenyl, 4-chlorophenyl, 4-methylphenyl, 6-methyl-3-pyridyl, 6-trifluoromethyl-3-pyridyl, 5-trifluoromethyl-3-pyridyl and pyrimidinyl. In one aspect, Q is a substituted pyridyl such as 6-methyl-3-pyridyl, 6-trifluoromethyl-3-pyridyl and 5-trifluoromethyl-3-pyridyl.

In some embodiments of formulae (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) and (VIII), R¹ is a substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl or substituted or unsubstituted aryl; each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, methyl, fluoro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety; each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H or fluoro; and each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, halo, hydroxyl or methyl or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety. In particular variations of formulae (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) and (VIII), R¹ is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl and R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a) and R^(10b), are each H. In still a further variation of formulae (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) and (VIII), R¹ is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a) and R^(10b) are each H and Q is selected from the group consisting of 4-methoxy-3-fluorophenyl, 3,4-di-fluorophenyl, 4-chloro-3-fluorophenyl, 3,4-dichlorophenyl, 3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl, 2,4-difluorophenyl, 2,4-dichlorophenyl, 2,4,6-trifluorophenyl, 4-chlorophenyl, 4-methylphenyl, 6-methyl-3-pyridyl, 6-trifluoromethyl-3-pyridyl, 5-trifluoromethyl-3-pyridyl and pyrimidinyl. In still a further variation of formulae (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) and (VIII), R¹ is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a) and R^(10b) are each H and X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is chloro. In yet a further variation of formulae (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) and (VIII), R¹ is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a) and R^(10b) are each H, X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is chloro and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl or a substituted or substituted heteroaryl. In one such variation, Q is a substituted phenyl.

In particular embodiments of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is CH or CR⁴. In other embodiments, the compound is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) where at least one of X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is N. Another variation provides a compound of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) where at least two of X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ are N. A further variation provides a compound of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) where two of X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ are N and two of X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ are CH or CR⁴. Compounds of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), where one of X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is N and three of X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ are CH or CR⁴ are also embraced by this invention.

In another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) wherein the A-ring is an aromatic moiety selected from the following structures:

where each R⁴ is as defined for formula (I). In a particular variation, each R⁴ is independently hydroxyl, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, thioalkyl, substituted or amino, alkylsulfonylamino or acyl. In a further variation, each R⁴ is independently halo, unsubstituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, C₁-C₄ perhaloalkyl, or C₁-C₄ alkoxy.

In still a further variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), wherein the A-ring is an aromatic moiety selected from the following structures:

wherein R⁴ is as defined in formula (I); or in a particular variation, where R⁴ is hydroxyl, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, thioalkyl, substituted or amino, alkylsulfonylamino or acyl; or in still a further variation, where each R⁴ is independently halo, unsubstituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, C₁-C₄ perhaloalkyl, or C₁-C₄ alkoxy.

In a further variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), wherein the A-ring is an aromatic moiety selected from the following structures:

Any formula detailed herein, where applicable, may in one variation have X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ taken together to provide an aromatic moiety detailed herein above. It is understood that by “where applicable” it is intended that in one variation such X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ groups are taken together to provide a moiety hereinabove if the formula encompasses such a structure. For example, if a given formula does not encompass structures wherein X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ groups are taken together provide a pyridyl moiety, then a pyridyl moiety as detailed hereinabove is not applicable to that particular formula, but remains applicable to formulae that do encompass structures where X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ groups are taken together provide a pyridyl moiety.

In another embodiment, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), wherein X⁷-X¹⁰ are as defined in formula (I) or as detailed in any variation herein, where R¹ is H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl. In a further embodiment, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), wherein X⁷-X¹⁰ are as defined in formula (I) or as detailed in any variation herein, where R¹ is a substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl or substituted or unsubstituted aryl. In a particular variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), wherein X⁷-X¹⁰ are as defined in formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or as detailed in any variation herein, where R¹ is methyl, ethyl, cyclopropyl, propylate, trifluoromethyl, isopropyl, tert-butyl, sec-butyl, 2-methylbutyl, propanal, 1-methyl-2-hydroxyethyl, 2-hydroxyethanal, 2-hydroxyethyl, 2-hydroxypropyl, 2-hydroxy-2-methylpropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl, substituted phenyl, piperidin-4-yl, hydroxycyclopent-3-yl, hydroxycyclopent-2-yl, hydroxycycloprop-2-yl, 1-hydroxy-1-methylcycloprop-2-yl, or 1-hydroxy-1,2,2-trimethyl-cycloprop-3-yl.

In another variation, the compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), where X⁷-X¹⁰ and R¹ are as defined in formula (I) or as detailed in any variation herein, where R^(2a) and R^(2b) are independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety and each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano or nitro. In another variation, the compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), where X⁷-X¹⁰ and R¹ are as defined in formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or as detailed in any variation herein, where each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety and each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo or R^(3a) and R^(3b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety. In still a further variation, the compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), where X⁷-X¹⁰ and R¹ are as defined in formula (I) or as detailed in any variation herein, where each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety; and each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo or R^(3a) and R^(3b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety. The invention also embraces compounds of the invention according to formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), where X⁷-X¹⁰ and R¹ are as defined in formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or as detailed in any variation herein, where each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, methyl, halo or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety and each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, methyl, halo or R^(3a) and R^(3b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety.

The invention further embraces compounds of the invention according to formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), where X⁷-X¹⁰ and R¹ are as defined in formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or as detailed in any variation herein, where each R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a) and R^(3b) is H. In one variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) where X⁷-X¹⁰ and R¹ are as defined in formula (I) or as detailed in any variation herein, where at least one of R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a) and R^(3b) is a substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, nitro or is taken together with a geminal R² or R³ to form a carbonyl moiety.

In another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) where X⁷-X¹⁰ and R¹ are as defined in formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or as detailed in any variation herein, where at least two of R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a) and R^(3b) is a substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, nitro or is taken together with a geminal R² or R³ to form a carbonyl moiety. In yet another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) where X⁷-X¹⁰ and R¹ are as defined in formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or as detailed in any variation herein, where at least one of R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a) and R^(3b) is fluoro or methyl or is taken together with a geminal R² or R³ to form a carbonyl moiety.

In still another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) where X⁷-X¹⁰ and R¹ are as defined in formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or as detailed in any variation herein, where either R^(2a) and R^(2b) or R^(3a) and R^(3b) are each methyl or fluoro (e.g., both R^(2a) and R^(2b) are methyl or one is fluoro and one is methyl) or are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety. In one variation, R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety. In another variation, at least one of R^(2a) and R^(2b) is hydroxyl or alkoxy. In a particular variation, each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety. In another variation, each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety.

The invention also embraces compounds according to formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), where X⁷-X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a) and R^(3b) are as defined in formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or as detailed in any variation herein, where each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, halo, an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, hydroxyl or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety. Also embraced are compounds according to formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), where X⁷-X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a) and R^(3b) are as defined in formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or as detailed in any variation herein, where each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, halo, an unsubstituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, hydroxyl or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety. In another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), where X⁷-X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a) and R^(3b) are as defined in formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or as detailed in any variation herein, where each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, bromo, methyl, hydroxyl or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety.

In yet another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), where X⁷-X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a) and R^(3b) are as defined in formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or as detailed in any variation herein, where at least one of R^(10a) and R^(10b) is an unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, hydroxyl, halo or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety. In still a further variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), where X⁷-X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a) and R^(3b) are as defined in formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or as detailed in any variation herein, where at least one of R^(10a) and R^(10b) is methyl, bromo, hydroxyl or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety.

In another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), where X⁷-X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a) and R^(3b) are as defined in formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or as detailed in any variation herein, where R^(10a) and R^(10b) are methyl. In another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), where X⁷-X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a) and R^(3b) are as defined in formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or as detailed in any variation herein, where R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety. In another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), where X⁷-X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a) and R^(3b) are as defined in formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or as detailed in any variation herein, where R^(10a) is H and R^(10b) is methyl. In another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), where X⁷-X¹⁰, R¹, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a) and R^(3b) are as defined in formula (I) or as detailed in any variation herein, where R^(10a) is H and R^(10b) is bromo. When the carbon of formula (I) bearing R^(10a) and R^(10b) is optically active, it may be in the (S)- or (R)-configuration and compositions comprising substantially pure (R) or (S) compound or mixtures thereof in any amount are embraced by this invention.

In compounds of formula (I), (II), (III) or (IV), the ring comprising N, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(10a), R^(10b), R^(3a), and R^(3b) is sometimes referred to herein as the C-ring. In some embodiments, the C-ring is a ring selected from the structures:

where R¹ in the structures above is as defined for formula (I) or any particular variation detailed herein. In some embodiments, the C-ring is a ring of the structure:

where R¹ is as defined for formula (I) or any particular variation detailed herein. Any formula detailed herein, where applicable, may in one variation have a C-ring according to the structures above.

In compounds of formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, which may be but is not limited to a substituted or unsubstituted pyridyl, phenyl, pyrimidinyl, pyrazinyl, imidazolyl, furanyl, pyrrolyl or thiophenyl group. In one variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is a substituted or unsubstituted phenyl or pyridyl group. In a particular variation, Q is a phenyl or pyridyl group substituted with at least one methyl, trifluoromethyl, methoxy or halo substituent. In another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is a pyridyl, phenyl, pyrimidinyl, pyrazinyl, imidazolyl, furanyl, pyrrolyl or thiophenyl group substituted with at least one substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, C₁-C₄ alkoxy, halo or C₁-C₄ perhaloalkyl moiety.

In still another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is a substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl or a substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl. In another variation, Q is a substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl or a substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl. In yet another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is a substituted or unsubstituted pyridyl, phenyl, pyrazinyl, piperazinyl, pyrrolidinyl or thiomorpholinyl group. In a particular variation, Q is a pyridyl, phenyl, pyrazinyl, piperazinyl, pyrrolidinyl or thiomorpholinyl group substituted with at least one methyl, CF₃, methoxy or halo group.

In one variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is an unsubstituted cycloalkyl or an unsubstituted heterocyclyl. In another variation, Q is an unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl or an unsubstituted heterocyclyl. In another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is a substituted or unsubstituted cyclohexyl, morpholinyl, piperazinyl, thiomorpholinyl, cyclopentyl or pyrrolidinyl moiety. In yet another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is a substituted cyclohexyl, morpholinyl, piperazinyl, thiomorpholinyl, cyclopentyl or pyrrolidinyl moiety substituted with at least one carbonyl, hydroxymethyl, methyl or hydroxyl group. Q groups may be attached to the parent structure at any available position on the Q moiety. Thus, although specific attachment points for certain Q moieties are depicted herein, it is understood that such Q moieties, may also be connected to the parent structure at any available position. For example, if a 2-fluoro-phenyl is depicted herein, it is understood that other mono-fluoro-phenyls are intended, e.g., 3-fluoro-phenyl and 4-fluoro-phenyl. It is also understood that any formula detailed herein, where applicable, may in one variation have a Q moiety as detailed herein and below.

In another variation, a compound of the invention is of formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII), or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is a moiety selected from the structures:

wherein each R⁹ is independently a halo, cyano, nitro, perhaloalkyl, perhaloalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, alkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, carbonyl, aminoacyl or aminocarbonylamino. In one variation, Q is substituted with no more than one R⁹ group. In another variation, Q is substituted with only one R⁹ group. In one variation, Q is substituted with two R⁹ groups. In a further variation, Q is selected from the aromatic structures detailed where the residue has the moiety (R⁹)₀ such that Q either contains no R⁹ functionality or a moiety of the formula N—R⁹.

In still another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is a moiety selected from the structures:

wherein each R⁹ is independently a halo, cyano, nitro, perhaloalkyl (C₁-C₈), perhaloalkoxy (C₁-C₈), substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, alkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, carbonyl, aminoacyl or aminocarbonylamino. In one variation, Q is substituted with no more than one R⁹ group. In another variation, Q is substituted with only one R⁹ group. In one variation, Q is substituted with two R⁹ groups. In a further variation, Q is selected from the aromatic structures detailed where the residue has the moiety (R⁹)₀ such that Q either contains no R⁹ functionality or a moiety of the formula N—R⁹.

In one variation, Q is substituted with no more than one R⁹ group. In another variation, Q is substituted with only one R⁹ group. In one variation, Q is substituted with two R⁹ groups. In a further variation, Q is selected from the aromatic structures detailed where the residue has the moiety (R⁹)₀ such that Q either contains no R⁹ functionality or a moiety of the formula N—R⁹.

In another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is a moiety selected from the structures:

and wherein R⁹ is connected to Q ortho or para to the position at which Q is connected to the carbon bearing R^(8c) and R^(8d) when m is 1, or the carbon bearing R¹² when m is 0. In a particular variation, Q is a structure of the formula:

and R⁹ is connected to Q para to the position at which Q is connected to the carbon bearing R^(8c) and R^(8d) when m is 1, or the carbon bearing R¹² when m is 0.

In another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (II) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is a moiety selected from the structures:

and wherein R⁹ is connected to Q ortho or para to the position at which Q is connected to the carbon bearing R^(8c) and R^(8d) when m is 1, or the carbon bearing R^(12a) and R^(12b) when m is 0. In a particular variation, Q is a structure of the formula:

and R⁹ is connected to Q para to the position at which Q is connected to the carbon bearing R^(8c) and R^(8d) when m is 1, or the carbon bearing R^(12a) and R^(12b) when m is 0. In another particular variation, Q is a structure of the formula

where each R⁹ is independently alkyl, perhaloalkyl or halo.

In another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is a moiety selected from the structures:

wherein each R⁹ is independently a halo, cyano, nitro, perhaloalkyl, perhaloalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, thioalkyl, alkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, carbonyl, aminoacyl or aminocarbonylamino. In one variation, Q is substituted with no more than one R⁹ group. In another variation, Q is substituted with only one R⁹ group. In yet another variation, Q is substituted with two R⁹ groups. In a particular variation, Q is selected from the carbocyclic and heterocyclic structures detailed where the residue has the moiety (R⁹)₀ such that Q either contains no R⁹ functionality or a moiety of the formula N—R⁹.

In any structure or variation detailed herein containing an R⁹ group, in one variation, each R⁹ is independently a substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo, trifluoromethyl or hydroxyl. In another variation, each R⁹ is independently methyl, —CH₂OH, isopropyl, halo, trifluoromethyl or hydroxyl.

In another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is a moiety selected from the structures:

In another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is a moiety selected from the structures:

In yet another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is a moiety selected from the structures:

In another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is an substituted or unsubstituted amino, alkoxy, aminoacyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, aminocarbonylalkoxy or acylamino moiety. In a particular variation, Q is an unsubstituted amino. In another variation, Q is substituted amino of the formula —N(C₁-C₈ alkyl)₂ such as the moiety —N(Me)₂ or —N(CH₃)(CH₂CH₃). In another variation, Q is a substituted amino of the formula —N(H)(cycloalkyl or substituted cycloalkyl), such as a moiety of the formula:

In another variation, Q is a substituted amino of the formula —N(H)(aryl or substituted aryl), such as a moiety of the formula:

In a particular variation, Q is an amino or substituted amino, m is 1 and R^(8c) and R^(8d) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety. In yet another variation, Q is an acylamino moiety. In still another variation, Q is an acylamino moiety, and either (1) m is 1 and R^(8c) and R^(8d) are both hydrogen or (2) m is 0.

In another variation, Q is an alkoxy group of the formula —O—C₁-C₈ alkyl, such as the moiety —O—CH₂CH₃. In yet another variation, Q is an alkoxy group, m is 1 and R^(8c) and R^(8d) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety. In still a further variation, Q is a carbonylalkoxy moiety. In yet another variation, Q is a carbonylalkoxy moiety and either (1) m is 1 and R^(8c) and R^(8d) are both hydrogen or (2) m is 0.

In still another variation, Q is an acyloxy, aminocarbonylalkoxy or acylamino moiety. In one variation, Q is an acyloxy, aminocarbonylalkoxy or acylamino moiety and either (1) m is 1 and R^(8c) and R^(8d) are both hydrogen or (2) m is 0.

The invention also embraces compounds of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is an aminoacyl moiety. In one variation, Q is an aminoacyl group where at least one of R_(a) and R_(b) is H, such as when Q is of the formula —NHC(O)R_(b). In one variation, Q is an aminoacyl moiety selected from the group consisting of: —NHC(O)-heterocyclyl, —NHC(O)-substituted heterocyclyl, —NHC(O)-alkyl, —NHC(O)-cycloalkyl, —NHC(O)-aralkyl and —NHC(O)-substituted aryl. In another variation, Q is an aminoacyl moiety selected from the group consisting of: —NHC(O)—C₅-C₇ heterocyclyl, —NHC(O)—C₁-C₆ alkyl, —NHC(O)—C₃-C₇ cycloalkyl, —NHC(O)—C₁-C₃ aralkyl and —NHC(O)-substituted phenyl.

In a particular variation, Q is a moiety of the formula:

In one variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is acyloxy.

In one variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is a carbonylalkoxy moiety. In one variation, Q is a carbonylalkoxy moiety of the formula —C(O)—O—R where R is H, alkyl, substituted alkyl or alkaryl. In one variation, Q is carbonylalkoxy moiety of the formula —C(O)—O—C₁-C₆ alkyl. In a particular variation, Q is a carbonylalkoxy moiety of the formula —C(O)—O—C₂H₅. In one variation, Q is a carbonylalkoxy moiety selected from the group consisting of: —C(O)—O—C₁-C₁₀ alkyl, —C(O)—O—C₁-C₃ alkaryl, —C(O)—O—C₁-C₃ substituted alkyl and —C(O)—OH. In another variation, Q is —C(O)—O—C₁-C₆ alkyl. In a particular variation, Q is a moiety of the formula:

In another variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is an aminocarbonylalkoxy moiety. In one variation, Q is an aminocarbonylalkoxy moiety of the formula —NHC(O)—O—R_(b). In another variation, Q is an aminocarbonylalkoxy moiety of the formula —NHC(O)—O—R_(b) where R_(b) is a substituted alkyl group. In a particular variation, Q is a moiety of the formula —NH—C(O)—O—CH₂—CCl₃.

The invention also embraces compounds of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, where Q is an acylamino moiety. In one variation, Q is an acylamino group where at least one of R_(a) and R_(b) is H, such as when Q is of the formula —C(O)N(H)(R_(b)). In another variation, Q is an acylamino group where both R_(a) and R_(b) are alkyl. In one variation, Q is an acylamino moiety selected from the group consisting of: —C(O)—N(H)(alkyl), —C(O)—N(alkyl)₂, —C(O)—N(H)(aralkyl) and —C(O)—N(H)(aryl). In another variation, Q is an acylamino moiety selected from the group consisting of: —C(O)—N(H)₂, —C(O)—N(H)(C₁-C₈ alkyl), —C(O)—N(C₁-C₆ alkyl)₂ and —C(O)—N(H)(C₁-C₃aralkyl). In a particular variation, Q is a moiety of the formula:

In a further variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) where R¹ is an unsubstituted alkyl, R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a), R^(3b), R^(10a) and R^(10b) are each H, each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is independently N or CH, each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c), and R^(8d) is independently H or hydroxyl, and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, including but not limited to a substituted or unsubstituted phenyl or pyridyl group. Where Q is a substituted phenyl or pyridyl group, in one variation it is substituted with at least one methyl or halo group.

In yet a further variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) where R¹ is a substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl; each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl or halo; each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H or halo; each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is CH or CR⁴, where R⁴ is as defined in formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or in a particular variation, R⁴ is halo, pyridyl, methyl or trifluoromethyl; R^(10a) and R^(10b) are both H, and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, including but not limited to a substituted or unsubstituted pyridyl, phenyl, pyrimidinyl, pyrazinyl, imidazolyl, furanyl, pyrrolyl or thiophenyl group. In a particular variation, Q is a pyridyl, phenyl, pyrimidinyl, pyrazinyl, imidazolyl, furanyl, pyrrolyl or thiophenyl group substituted with at least one substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo or perhaloalkyl moiety. In one variation, a compound of the variation detailed herein is provided wherein R¹ is propylate, methyl, ethyl, cyclopropyl, trifluoromethyl, isopropyl, tert-butyl, sec-butyl, 2-methylbutyl, propanal, 1-methyl-2-hydroxyethyl, 2-hydroxyethanal, 2-hydroxyethyl, 2-hydroxypropyl, 2-hydroxy-2-methylpropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl, substituted phenyl, piperidin-4-yl, hydroxycyclopent-3-yl, hydroxycyclopent-2-yl, hydroxycycloprop-2-yl, 1-hydroxy-1-methylcycloprop-2-yl, or 1-hydroxy-1,2,2-trimethyl-cycloprop-3-yl.

In still a further variation, a compound of the invention is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) where R¹ is a substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl; each R^(2a), R^(2b), R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H or halo; each R⁴ is independently halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or a unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl; each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c) and R^(8d) is H; and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted cyclohexyl, morpholinyl, piperazinyl, thiomorpholinyl, cyclopentyl or pyrrolidinyl moiety. The invention also embraces a compound of the formula (I) where R¹ is a methyl; at least one of X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is CR⁴, and each R⁴ is independently halo, methyl or trifluoromethyl. The invention embraces compounds where Q in any variation detailed is substituted with at least one carbonyl, hydroxymethyl, methyl or hydroxyl group, to the extent such substituent makes chemical sense.

In a particular variation, the compound is of the formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) where R¹ is a substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl; each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, a substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety; R^(3a) and R^(3b) are both H; each R⁴ is independently halo or a substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl; each is R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8c), and R^(8d) is H; each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, halo, a substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, hydroxyl, alkoxy or R^(10a) and R^(10b) are taken together to form a carbonyl moiety, provided that at least one of R^(10a) and R^(10b) is other than H. In one aspect of this variation, Q may be a substituted or unsubstituted pyridyl, phenyl, pyrazinyl, piperazinyl, pyrrolidinyl or thiomorpholinyl group. In another aspect of this variation, Q is a pyridyl, phenyl, pyrazinyl, piperazinyl, pyrrolidinyl or thiomorpholinyl group substituted with at least one methyl or halo group. In yet another aspect of this variation, X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ are CH or CR⁴ and each R⁴ is independently halo or methyl.

In another variation, a compound of the invention is of a formula detailed herein, e.g., formula (I), (II) or (III) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, or a compound according to any one of the formulae (I-A), (I-B), (I-C), (I-D), (I-E), (I-F), (I-G) (I-b1), (I-b2), (I-c1), (I-c2), (I-d1), (I-d2), (I-e1), (I-e2), (I-f1), (I-f2), (I-g1) and (I-g2) where Q is a substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl or heterocyclyl selected from the structures:

In another variation, a compound of the invention is of a formula detailed herein, e.g., formula (I), (II) or (III) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, or a compound according to any one of the formulae (I-A), (I-B), (I-C), (I-D), (I-E), (I-F), (I-G), (I-b1), (I-b2), (I-c1), (I-c2), (I-d1), (I-d2), (I-e1), (I-e2), (I-f1), (I-f2), (I-g1) and (I-g2) where Q is a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl selected from the structures:

In another variation, a compound of the invention is of a formula detailed herein, e.g., formula (I), (II) or (III) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, or a compound according to any one of the formulae (I-A), (I-B), (I-C), (I-D), (I-E), (I-F), (I-G), (I-b1), (I-b2), (I-c1), (I-c2), (I-d1), (I-d2), (I-e1), (I-e2), (I-f1), (I-f2), (I-g1) and (I-g2) where Q is a substituted or unsubstituted phenyl selected from the structures:

In another variation, a compound of the invention is of a formula detailed herein, e.g., formula (I), (II) or (III) or any variation of the foregoing detailed herein, or a compound according to any one of the formulae (I-A), (I-B), (I-C), (I-D), (I-E), (I-F), (I-G), (I-b1), (I-b2), (I-c1), (I-c2), (I-d1), (I-d2), (I-e1), (I-e2), (I-f1), (I-f2), (I-g1) and (I-g2) where Q is a substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl selected from the structures:

The embodiments and variations described herein for Formula (I) are also suitable for compounds of formulae (I-A), (I-B), (I-C), (I-D), (I-E), (I-F), (I-G), (I-b1), (I-b2), (I-c1), (I-c2), (I-d1), (I-d2), (I-e1), (I-e2), (I-f1), (I-f2), (I-g1) and (I-g2). The embodiments and variations described herein for Formula (II) are also suitable for compounds of formulae (II-A), (II-B), (II-C), (II-D), (II-a1), (II-b1), (II-c1) and (II-d1). Where appropriate, substituents described herein for formula (I) and variations thereof are also suitable for compounds of formulae (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI) and (VII), and variations thereof.

Strikingly, it has been discovered that compounds included in the invention that contain a substituted vinyl moiety, such as methylvinyl, exhibit a lower binding affinity to H₁ as compared to their unsubstituted vinyl counterparts. To illustrate, compound 106 (which contains a methylvinyl moiety) exhibits a lower binding affinity to H₁ as compared to its unsubstituted vinyl counterpart, compound 415. Likewise, compound 85 (which contains a methylvinyl moiety) exhibits a lower binding affinity to H₁ as compared to its unsubstituted vinyl counterpart, compound 95. The structures of compounds 106, 415, 85 and 95 are shown below, with the methylvinyl moieties of compounds 106 and 85 encircled by dotted lines.

Thus, it is believed that substituted vinyl moieties, such as methylvinyl, may be responsible for reduced H₁ affinity.

Compounds that exhibit affinity for the histamine receptor H₁ may induce undesirable side effects, such as metabolic syndrome, diabetes type 2, weight gain, hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, hypertension and drowsiness (Kroeze et al., Neuropsychopharmacology (2003) 28, 519-526). The number and extent of undesireable side effects increases with increasing affinity for the H₁ receptor Thus, in one aspect, compounds of the formulae herein display reduced, low or no affinity to histamine receptor H₁. Compounds with low affinity to H₁ are those compounds which display less than about 80% inhibition of binding of a ligand to H₁. Inhibition of binding of a ligand to H₁ for all variations detailed herein is determined by a suitable assay known in the art such as the assay described herein. In some variations, compounds of the formulae herein inhibit binding of a ligand to H₁ by less than about any of 80%, 75%, 70%, 65%, 60% 55% and 50%. In one variation, compounds of the formulae herein inhibit binding of a ligand to H₁ by between about 50% to about 80%. In aspect, compounds of the formulae herein inhibit binding of a ligand to H₁ by less than about any of 80%, 75%, 70%, 65%, 60% 55% and 50% at any concentration, such as those detailed herein, e.g., 0.1 μM and 1 μM. In one variation, compounds of the formulae herein inhibit binding of Pyrilamine to H₁ as determined in the assay described herein. In a further variation, percent inhibition of binding to H₁ is measured by assays detailed herein.

Compounds containing a substituted vinyl moiety, such as methylvinyl moiety, are detailed herein wherein the compounds exhibit reduced H₁ affinity as compared to their unsubstituted vinyl counterparts. In one aspect, compounds that contain a substituted vinyl moiety, such as a methylvinyl moiety, exhibit low or no H₁ affinity and thus provide compounds with fewer or lesser undesirable side effects than compounds containing an unsubstituted vinyl moiety. In one variation, compounds as detailed herein containing a substituted vinyl moiety, such as methylvinyl, inhibit binding of a ligand to H₁ by less than about any of 80%, 75%, 70%, 65%, 60% 55% and 50%. In another variation, compounds as detailed herein containing a substituted vinyl moiety, such as methylvinyl, inhibit binding of a ligand to H₁ by less than about any of 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10% and 5%.

Representative examples of compounds detailed herein, including intermediates and final compounds according to the invention are depicted in the tables below. It is understood that in one aspect, any of the compounds may be used in the methods detailed herein, including, where applicable, intermediate compounds that may be isolated and administered to an individual.

The compounds depicted herein may be present as salts even if salts are not depicted and it is understood that the invention embraces all salts and solvates of the compounds depicted here, as well as the non-salt and non-solvate form of the compound, as is well understood by the skilled artisan. In some embodiments, the salts of the compounds of the invention are pharmaceutically acceptable salts.

Pharmaceutical compositions of any of the compounds detailed herein are embraced by this invention. Thus, the invention includes pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of the invention or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient. In one aspect, the pharmaceutically acceptable salt is an acid addition salt, such as a salt formed with an inorganic or organic acid. Pharmaceutical compositions according to the invention may take a form suitable for oral, buccal, parenteral, nasal, topical or rectal administration or a form suitable for administration by inhalation.

A compound as detailed herein may in one aspect be in a purified form and compositions comprising a compound in purified forms are detailed herein. Compositions comprising a compound as detailed herein or a salt thereof are provided, such as compositions of substantially pure compounds. In some embodiments, a composition containing a compound as detailed herein or a salt thereof is in substantially pure form. Unless otherwise stated, “substantially pure” intends a composition that contains no more than 35% impurity, wherein the impurity denotes a compound other than the compound comprising the majority of the composition or a salt thereof. Taking compound 1 as an example, a composition of substantially pure compound 1 intends a composition that contains no more than 35% impurity, wherein the impurity denotes a compound other than compound 1 or a salt thereof. In one variation, a composition of substantially pure compound or a salt thereof is provided wherein the composition contains no more than 25% impurity. In another variation, a composition of substantially pure compound or a salt thereof is provided wherein the composition contains or no more than 20% impurity. In still another variation, a composition of substantially pure compound or a salt thereof is provided wherein the composition contains or no more than 10% impurity. In a further variation, a composition of substantially pure compound or a salt thereof is provided wherein the composition contains or no more than 5% impurity. In another variation, a composition of substantially pure compound or a salt thereof is provided wherein the composition contains or no more than 3% impurity. In still another variation, a composition of substantially pure compound or a salt thereof is provided wherein the composition contains or no more than 1% impurity. In a further variation, a composition of substantially pure compound or a salt thereof is provided wherein the composition contains or no more than 0.5% impurity.

In one variation, the compounds herein are synthetic compounds prepared for administration to an individual. In another variation, compositions are provided containing a compound in substantially pure form. In another variation, the invention embraces pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound detailed herein and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. In another variation, methods of administering a compound are provided. The purified forms, pharmaceutical compositions and methods of administering the compounds are suitable for any compound or form thereof detailed herein.

General Description of Biological Assays

The binding properties of compounds disclosed herein to a panel of aminergic G protein-coupled receptors including adrenergic receptors, dopamine receptors, serotonin receptors, histamine receptors and an imidazoline receptor may be determined. Binding properties may be assessed by methods known in the art, such as competitive binding assays. In one variation, compounds are assessed by the binding assays detailed herein. Compounds disclosed herein may also be tested in cell-based assays or in in vivo models for further characterization. In one aspect, compounds disclosed herein are of any formula detailed herein and further display one or more of the following characteristics: inhibition of binding of a ligand to an adrenergic receptor (e.g., α_(1D), α_(2A) and α_(2B)), inhibition of binding of a ligand to a serotonin receptor (e.g., 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT_(2C), 5-HT₆ and 5-HT₇), inhibition of binding of a ligand to a dopamine receptor (e.g., D_(2L)), and inhibition of binding of a ligand to a histamine receptor (e.g., H₁, H₂ and H₃); agonist/antagonist activity to a serotonin receptor (e.g., 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT₆); agonist/antagonist activity to a dopamine receptor (e.g., D_(2L), D_(2S)); agonist/antagonist activity to a histamine receptor (e.g., H₁); activity in a neurite outgrowth assay; efficacy in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction associated with cholinergic dysfunction/hypofunction; efficacy in a preclinical model of attention impulsivity and executive function, and efficacy in a preclinical model of schizophrenia.

In one variation, inhibition of binding of a ligand to a receptor is measured in the assays described herein. In another variation, inhibition of binding of a ligand is measured in an assay known in the art. In one variation, binding of a ligand to a receptor is inhibited by at least about 80% as determined in a suitable assay known in the art such as the assays described herein. In one variation, binding of a ligand to a receptor is inhibited by greater than about any one of 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 100%, or between about 85% and about 95% or between about 90 and about 100% as determined in a suitable assay known in the art such as the assays described herein. In one variation, binding of a ligand to a receptor is inhibited by at least about 80%±20% as determined in an assay known in the art.

In one variation, a compound of the invention inhibits binding of a ligand to at least one receptor and as many as eleven as detailed herein (e.g. α_(1D), α_(2A), α_(2B), 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT_(2C), 5-HT₆, 5-HT₇, D_(2L), H₁, H₂, H₃). In one variation, a compound of the invention inhibits binding of a ligand to at least one receptor and as many as eleven as detailed herein (e.g. α_(1D), α_(2A), α_(2B), 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT_(2C), 5-HT₆, 5-HT₇, D₂, H₁, H₂, H₃). In one variation, a compound of the invention inhibits binding of a ligand to at least one and as many as eleven receptors detailed herein and further displays agonist or antagonist activity to one or more receptors detailed herein (e.g., serotonin receptor 5-HT_(2A), serotonin receptor 5-HT₆, dopamine receptor D_(2L), dopamine receptor D_(2S) and histamine receptor H₁) as measured in the assays described herein. In one variation, agonist response of serotonin receptor 5-HT_(2A) is inhibited by compounds of the invention by at least about any one of 50%, 50%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 100%, 110%, 120%, 130%, 140%, 150% as determined in a suitable assay such as the assay described herein.

In one variation, a compound of the invention displays the above described neurotransmitter receptor binding profile i.e. inhibits binding of a ligand to at least one receptor and as many as eleven as detailed herein and further stimulates neurite outgrowth, e.g. as measured by the assays described herein. Certain compounds of the invention showed activity in neurite outgrowth assays using primary neurons in culture. Data is presented indicating that a compound of the invention has activity comparable in magnitude to that of naturally occurring prototypical neurotrophic proteins such as brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF). Notably, neurite outgrowth plays a critical part of new synaptogenesis, which is beneficial for the treatment of neuronal disorders. In one variation, neuronal disorders include ADHD. In one variation, neurite outgrowth is observed with a potency of about 1 μM as measured in a suitable assay known in the art such as the assays described herein. In another variation, neurite outgrowth is observed with a potency of about 500 nM. In a further variation, neurite outgrowth is observed with a potency of about 50 nM. In another variation, neurite outgrowth is observed with a potency of about 5 nM.

In another variation, a compound of the invention inhibits binding of a ligand to at least one receptor and as many as eleven as detailed herein, further displays agonist or antagonist activity to one or more receptors detailed herein and further stimulates neurite outgrowth.

In a further variation, a compound of the invention inhibits binding of a ligand to at least one and as many as eleven receptors as detailed herein and/or display the above described neurotransmitter receptor binding profile and further shows efficacy in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction associated with cholinergic dysfunction/hypofunction, and in preclinical models of attention/impulsivity and executive function, i.e. shows pro-cognitive effects in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction. Compounds of the invention have been shown to be effective in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction associated with cholinergic hypofunction (see relevant Examples). As H₁ antagonism may contribute to sedation, weight gain and reduced cognition, low affinity (less than about 80% inhibition of binding of Pyrilamine at 1 μM in the assay described herein) for this receptor may be associated with pro-cognitive effects and a more desirable side effect profile. Furthermore, compounds of the invention with increased potency as a 5-HT₆ antagonist may have cognition-enhancing effects as serotonin acting through this receptor may impair memory.

In another variation, a compound of the invention inhibits binding of a ligand to at least one and as many as eleven receptors as detailed herein, further shows efficacy in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction associated with cholinergic dysfunction/hypofunction i.e. shows pro-cognitive effects in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction, in preclinical models of attention/impulsivity and executive function, and further displays agonist or antagonist activity to one or more receptors detailed herein.

In a further variation, a compound of the invention inhibits binding of a ligand to at least one and as many as eleven receptors as detailed herein, further shows efficacy in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction associated with cholinergic dysfunction/hypofunction i.e. shows pro-cognitive effects in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction, and in preclinical models of attention/impulsivity and executive function, and further stimulates neurite outgrowth.

In another variation, a compound of the invention inhibits at least one and as many as eleven receptors as detailed herein, further shows efficacy in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction associated with cholinergic dysfunction/hypofunction i.e. shows pro-cognitive effects in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction, in preclinical models of attention/impulsivity and executive function, further displays agonist or antagonist activity to one or more receptor detailed herein and further stimulates neurite outgrowth.

In a further variation, a compound of the invention inhibits binding of a ligand to at least one and as many as eleven receptors and further possesses anti-psychotic effects as measured in a preclinical model of schizophrenia, i.e., shows efficacy in a preclinical model of schizophrenia.

In another variation, a compound of the invention inhibits binding of a ligand to at least one and as many as eleven receptors, further shows efficacy in a preclinical model of schizophrenia and further displays agonist or antagonist activity to one or more receptors detailed herein.

In a further variation, a compound of the invention inhibits binding of a ligand to at least one and as many as eleven receptors, further shows efficacy in a preclinical model of schizophrenia and further stimulates neurite outgrowth.

In a further variation, a compound of the invention inhibits binding of a ligand to at least one and as many as eleven receptors, further shows efficacy in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction associated with cholinergic dysfunction/hypofunction such as enhancement of memory retention and reduction of memory impairment, and in preclinical models of attention/impulsivity and executive function, and further shows efficacy in a preclinical model of schizophrenia.

In another variation, a compound of the invention inhibits binding of a ligand to at least one and as many as eleven receptors, further shows efficacy in a preclinical model of schizophrenia, further displays agonist or antagonist activity to one or more receptors detailed herein and further shows efficacy in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction associated with cholinergic dysfunction/hypofunction such as enhancement of memory retention and reduction of memory impairment, and in preclinical models of attention/impulsivity and executive function.

In another variation, a compound of the invention inhibits binding of a ligand to at least one and as many as eleven receptors, further shows efficacy in a preclinical model of schizophrenia, further stimulates neurite outgrowth and further shows efficacy in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction associated with cholinergic dysfunction/hypofunction such as enhancement of memory retention and reduction of memory impairment, and in preclinical models of attention/impulsivity and executive function.

In a further variation, a compound of the invention inhibits binding of a lignad to at least one and as many as eleven receptors detailed herein, further displays agonist or antagonist activity to one or more receptors detailed herein, further stimulates neurite outgrowth and further shows efficacy in a preclinical model of schizophrenia.

In another variation, a compound of the invention inhibits binding of a ligand to at least one and as many as eleven receptors, further shows efficacy in a preclinical model of schizophrenia, further displays agonist or antagonist activity to one or more receptors detailed herein, further stimulates neurite outgrowth and further shows efficacy in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction associated with cholinergic dysfunction/hypofunction such as enhancement of memory retention and reduction of memory impairment, and in preclinical models of attention/impulsivity and executive function.

In another variation, a compound of the invention stimulates neurite outgrowth. In another variation, a compound of the invention shows efficacy in a preclinical model of schizophrenia and further stimulates neurite outgrowth. In another variation, a compound of the invention stimulates neurite outgrowth and further shows efficacy in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction associated with cholinergic dysfunction/hypofunction such as enhancement of memory retention and reduction of memory impairment, and in preclinical models of attention/impulsivity and executive function. In another variation, a compound of the invention shows efficacy in a preclinical model of schizophrenia, further stimulates neurite outgrowth and further shows efficacy in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction associated with cholinergic dysfunction/hypofunction such as enhancement of memory retention and reduction of memory impairment, and in preclinical models of attention/impulsivity and executive function.

In one aspect, compounds of the invention inhibit binding of a ligand to adrenergic receptors α_(1D), α_(2A), α_(2B) and inhibit binding of a ligand to serotonin receptor 5-HT₆. In another variation, compounds of the invention inhibit binding of a ligand to adrenergic receptors α_(1D), α_(2A), α_(2B), to serotonin receptor 5-HT₆ and to any one or more of the following receptors: serotonin receptor 5-HT₇, 5-HT_(2A) and 5-HT_(2C). In another variation, compounds of the invention inhibit binding of a ligand to adrenergic receptors α_(1D), α_(2A), α_(2B), to serotonin receptor 5-HT₆ and to any one or more of the following receptors: serotonin receptor 5-HT₇, 5-HT_(2A) and 5-HT_(2C) and further show weak inhibition of binding of a ligand to histamine receptor H₁ and/or H₂. In one variation, compounds of the invention that also display strong inhibition of binding of a ligand to the serotonin receptor 5-HT₇ are particularly desired. In another variation, compounds of the invention inhibit binding of a ligand to adrenergic receptors α_(1D), α_(2A), α_(2B), to serotonin receptor 5-HT₆ and further show weak inhibition of binding of a ligand to histamine receptor H₁ and/or H₂. Weak inhibition of binding of a ligand to the histamine H₁ receptor is permitted as agonists of this receptor have been implicated in stimulating memory as well as weight gain. In one variation, binding to histamine receptor H₁ is inhibited by less than about 80%. In another variation, binding of a ligand to histamine receptor H₁ is inhibited by less than about any of 75%, 70%, 65%, 60%, 55%, or 50% as determined by a suitable assay known in the art such as the assays described herein.

In another variation, compounds of the invention inhibit binding of a ligand to a dopamine receptor D₂. In another variation, compounds of the invention inhibit binding of a ligand to dopamine receptor D_(2L). In another variation, compounds of the invention inhibit binding of a ligand to dopamine receptor D₂ and to serotonin receptor 5-HT_(2A). In another variation, compounds of the invention inhibit binding of a ligand to dopamine receptor D_(2L) and to serotonin receptor 5-HT_(2A). In another variation, compounds of the invention inhibit binding of a ligand to histamine receptor H₁. In certain aspects, compounds of the invention further show one or more of the following properties: strong inhibition of binding of a ligand to the serotonin 5-HT₇ receptor, strong inhibition of binding of a ligand to the serotonin 5-HT_(2A) receptor, strong inhibition of binding of a ligand to the serotonin 5-HT_(2C) receptor, weak inhibition of binding of a ligand to the histamine H₁ receptor, weak inhibition of binding of ligands to the histamine H₂ receptor, and antagonist activity to serotonin receptor 5-HT_(2A).

In one variation, compounds of the invention show any of the receptor binding aspects detailed herein and further display agonist/antagonist activity to one or more of the following receptors: serotonin receptor 5-HT_(2A), serotonin receptor 5-HT₆, dopamine receptor D_(2L), dopamine receptor D_(2S) and histamine receptor H₁. In one variation, compounds of the invention show any of the receptor binding aspects detailed herein and further stimulate neurite outgrowth. In one variation, compounds of the invention show any of the receptor binding aspects detailed herein and further show efficacy in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction associated with cholinergic dysfunction/hypofunction, such as enhancement of memory retention and reduction of memory impairment and in preclinical models of attention/impulsivity and executive function. In one variation, compounds of the invention show any of the receptor binding aspects detailed herein and further show efficacy in a preclinical model of schizophrenia. In one variation, compounds of the invention show any of the receptor binding aspects detailed herein and further show efficacy in any one or more of agonist/antagonist assays (e.g., to serotonin receptor 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT₆, dopamine receptor D_(2L), dopamine receptor D_(2S) and histamine receptor H₁), neurite outgrowth, a preclinical model of memory dysfunction associated with cholinergic dysfunction/hypofunction and a preclinical model of schizophrenia.

In some aspects, compounds of the invention inhibit binding of a ligand to adrenergic receptors α_(1D), α_(2A), α_(2B), serotonin receptor 5-HT₆ and a dopamine receptor D₂ by at least about 80% as determined in a suitable assay known in the art such as the assays described herein. In one variation binding is inhibited by at least about 80% as measured in a suitable assay such as the assays described herein. In some aspects, compounds of the invention inhibit binding of a ligand to adrenergic receptors α_(1D), α_(2A), α_(2B), serotonin receptor 5-HT₆ and dopamine receptor D_(2L) by at least about 80% as determined in a suitable assay known in the art such as the assays described herein. In one variation binding is inhibited by at least about 80% as measured in a suitable assay such as the assays described herein. In one variation, binding of a ligand to a receptor is inhibited by greater than about any one of 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 100%, or between about 85 and about 95% or between about 90 and about 100% as determined in a suitable assay known in the art such as the assays described herein.

In some aspects, compounds of the invention display the above described neurotransmitter receptor binding profile and further show antipsychotic effects. It is recognized that compounds of the invention have binding profiles similar to compounds with antipsychotic activity and several compounds of the invention have been shown to be effective in a preclinical model of schizophrenia (see relevant Examples). In addition, compounds of the invention might possess the cognitive enhancing properties of dimebon and thus add to the beneficial pharmacology profile of these antipsychotic molecules. In one variation, compounds of the invention display the above described neurotransmitter receptor binding profile and further show pro-cognitive effects in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction such as enhancement of memory retention and reduction of memory impairment. In another variation, compounds of the invention display the above described neurotransmitter receptor binding profile and do not show pro-cognitive effects in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction, learning and memory.

In one variation, compounds of the invention demonstrate pro-cognitive effects in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction, learning and memory. In a further variation, compounds of the invention possess anti-psychotic effects in a preclinical model of schizophrenia. In a further variation, compounds of the invention demonstrate pro-cognitive effects in a preclinical model of memory dysfunction, learning and memory and further possess anti-psychotic effects in a preclinical model of schizophrenia.

Overview of the Methods

The compounds described herein may be used to treat, prevent, delay the onset and/or delay the development of cognitive disorders, psychotic disorders, neurotransmitter-mediated disorders and/or neuronal disorders in individuals, such as humans. In one aspect, the compounds described herein may be used to treat, prevent, delay the onset and/or delay the development of a cognitive disorder. In one variation, cognitive disorder as used herein includes and intends disorders that contain a cognitive component, such as psychotic disorders (e.g., schizophrenia) containing a cognitive component (e.g., CIAS). In one variation, cognitive disorder includes ADHD. In another aspect, the compounds described herein may be used to treat, prevent, delay the onset and/or delay the development of a psychotic disorder. In one variation, psychotic disorder as used herein includes and intends disorders that contain a psychotic component, for example cognitive disorders (e.g., Alzheimer's disease) that contain a psychotic component (e.g., psychosis of Alzheimer's Disease or dementia). In one variation, methods of improving at least one cognitive and/or psychotic symptom associated with schizophrenia are provided. In one aspect, methods of improving cognition in an individual who has or is suspected of having CIAS are provided. In a particular aspect, methods of treating schizophrenia are provided wherein the treatment provides for an improvement in one or more negative symptom and/or one or more positive symptom and/or one or more disorganized symptom of schizophrenia. In yet another aspect, the compounds described herein may be used to treat, prevent, delay the onset and/or delay the development of a neurotransmitter-mediated disorders disorder. In one aspect, a neurotransmitter-mediated disorder includes ADHD. In one embodiment, the neurotransmitter-mediated disorder includes spinal cord injury, diabetic neuropathy, allergic diseases (including food allergies) and diseases involving geroprotective activity such as age-associated hair loss (alopecia), age-associated weight loss and age-associated vision disturbances (cataracts). In another variation, the neurotransmitter-mediated disorder includes spinal cord injury, diabetic neuropathy, fibromyalgia and allergic diseases (including food allergies). In still another embodiment, the neurotransmitter-mediated disorder includes Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's Disease, autism, Guillain-Barré syndrome, mild cognitive impairment, multiple sclerosis, stroke and traumatic brain injury. In yet another embodiment, the neurotransmitter-mediated disorder includes schizophrenia, anxiety, bipolar disorders, psychosis, depression and ADHD. In one variation, depression as used herein includes and intends treatment-resistant depression, depression related to a psychotic disorder, or depression related to a bipolar disorder. In another aspect, the compounds described herein may be used to treat, prevent, delay the onset and/or delay the development of a neuronal disorder. In one aspect, the compounds described herein may also be used to treat, prevent, delay the onset and/or delay the development of cognitive disorders, psychotic disorders, neurotransmitter-mediated disorders and/or neuronal disorders for which the modulation of an aminergic G protein-coupled receptor is believed to be or is beneficial.

The invention also provides methods of improving cognitive functions and/or reducing psychotic effects comprising administering to an individual in need thereof an amount of a compound of the invention or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof effective to improve cognitive functions and/or reduce psychotic effects. In a particular variation, a method of treating schizophrenia is provided, wherein the treatment provides an improvement in at least one cognitive function, such as an improvement in a cognitive function in an individual who has or is suspected of having CIAS. In a further variation, a method of treating schizophrenia is provided wherein the method reduces psychotic effects associated with schizophrenia. In one embodiment, a method of treating schizophrenia is provided wherein the method improves the negative symptoms of schizophrenia in an individual in need thereof. In one embodiment, a method of treating schizophrenia is provided wherein the method improves the positive symptoms of schizophrenia in an individual in need thereof. In a further variation, a method of treating schizophrenia is provided wherein the method both improves cognitive function and reduces psychotic effects in an individual in need thereof. A method of improving one or more negative, positive and disorganized symptoms of schizophrenia is also provided, where the method entails administering a compound as detailed herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, to an individual in need of such improvement. In one variation, a method of improving at least one negative symptom of schizophrenia is provided, where the method entails administering a compound as detailed herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, to an individual in need of such improvement. In another variation, a method of improving at least one negative and at least one positive symptom of schizophrenia is provided, where the method entails administering a compound as detailed herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, to an individual in need of such improvement. In yet another variation, a method of improving at least one negative and at least one disorganized symptom of schizophrenia is also provided, where the method entails administering a compound as detailed herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, to an individual in need of such improvement. In still another variation, a method of improving at least one positive and at least one disorganized symptom of schizophrenia is also provided, where the method entails administering a compound as detailed herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, to an individual in need of such improvement. In still a further variation, a method of improving at least one negative, at least one positive and at least one disorganized symptom of schizophrenia is provided, where the method entails administering a compound as detailed herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, to an individual in need of such improvement.

The invention also provides methods of stimulating neurite outgrowth and/or promoting neurogenesis and/or enhancing neurotrophic effects in an individual comprising administering to an individual in need thereof an amount of a compound of the invention or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof effective to stimulate neurite outgrowth and/or to promote neurogenesis and/or to enhance neurotrophic effects.

The invention further encompasses methods of modulating an aminergic G protein-coupled receptor comprising administering to an individual in need thereof an amount of a compound of the invention or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof effective to modulate an aminergic G protein-coupled receptor.

It is to be understood that methods described herein also encompass methods of administering compositions comprising the compounds of the invention.

Methods for Treating, Preventing, Delaying the Onset, and/or Delaying the Development Cognitive Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Neurotransmitter-Mediated Disorders and/or Neuronal Disorders

In one aspect, the invention provides methods for treating, preventing, delaying the onset, and/or delaying the development of cognitive disorders, psychotic disorders, neurotransmitter-mediated disorders and/or neuronal disorders for which the modulation of an aminergic G protein-coupled receptor is believed to be or is beneficial, the method comprising administering to an individual in need thereof a compound of the invention. In some variations, modulation of adrenergic receptor α_(1D), α_(2A), α_(2B), serotonin receptor 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT₆, 5-HT₇, histamine receptor H₁ and/or H₂ is expected to be or is beneficial for the cognitive disorders, psychotic disorders, neurotransmitter-mediated disorders and/or neuronal disorders. In some variations, modulation of adrenergic receptor α_(1D), α_(2A), α_(2B) and a serotonin receptor 5-HT₆ receptor is expected to be or is beneficial for the cognitive disorders, psychotic disorders, neurotransmitter-mediated disorders and/or neuronal disorders. In some variations, modulation of adrenergic receptor α_(1D), α_(2A), α_(2B), and a serotonin receptor 5-HT₆ receptor and modulation of one or more of the following receptors serotonin 5-HT₇, 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT_(2C) and histamine H₁ and H₂ is expected to be or is beneficial for the cognitive disorders, psychotic disorders, neurotransmitter-mediated disorders and/or neuronal disorders. In some variations, modulation of a dopamine receptor D₂ is expected to be or is beneficial for the cognitive disorders, psychotic disorders, neurotransmitter-mediated disorders and/or neuronal disorders. In some variations, modulation of dopamine receptor D_(2L) is expected to be or is beneficial for the cognitive disorders, psychotic disorders, neurotransmitter-mediated disorders and/or neuronal disorders. In some variations, modulation of a dopamine receptor D₂ is expected to be or is beneficial for the cognitive disorders, psychotic disorders, neurotransmitter-mediated disorders and/or neuronal disorders. In certain variations, modulation of a dopamine D_(2L) receptor and serotonin receptor 5-HT_(2A) is expected to be or is beneficial for the cognitive disorders, psychotic disorders, neurotransmitter-mediated disorders and/or neuronal disorders. In some variations, the cognitive disorders, psychotic disorders, neurotransmitter-mediated disorders and/or neuronal disorders are treated, prevented and/or their onset or development is delayed by administering a compound of the invention.

Methods to Improve Cognitive Functions and/or Reduce Psychotic Effects

The invention provides methods for improving cognitive functions by administering a compound of the invention to an individual in need thereof. In some variations, modulation of one or more of adrenergic receptor α_(1D), α_(2A), α_(2B), serotonin receptor 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT₆, 5-HT₇, histamine receptor H₁ and/or H₂ is desirable or expected to be desirable to improve cognitive functions. In some variations modulation of α_(1D), α_(2A), α_(2B) adrenergic receptors and a serotonin 5-HT₆ receptor is desirable or expected to be desirable to improve cognitive functions. In some variations, modulation of α_(1D), α_(2A), α_(2B) adrenergic receptors and serotonin receptor 5-HT₆ and modulation of one or more of the following receptors: serotonin receptor 5-HT₇, 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT_(2C) and histamine receptor H₁ and H₂, is desirable or expected to be desirable to improve cognitive functions. In another aspect, the invention encompasses methods to reduce psychotic effects by administering a compound of the invention to an individual in need thereof. In some embodiments, modulation of a dopamine D₂ receptor is expected to be or is desirable to reduce psychotic effects. In some embodiments, modulation of a dopamine D_(2L) receptor is expected to be or is desirable to reduce psychotic effects. In some embodiments, modulation of a dopamine D₂ receptor and a serotonin 5-HT_(2A) receptor is expected to be or is desirable to reduce psychotic effects. In some embodiments, modulation of a dopamine D_(2L) receptor and a serotonin 5-HT_(2A) receptor is expected to be or is desirable to reduce psychotic effects. In some variations, a compound of the invention is administered to an individual in need thereof.

Methods to Stimulate Neurite Outgrowth, Promote Neurogenesis and/or Enhance Neurotrophic Effects

In a further aspect, the invention provides methods of stimulating neurite outgrowth and/or enhancing neurogenesis and/or enhancing neurotrophic effects comprising administering a compound of the invention or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof under conditions sufficient to stimulate neurite outgrowth and/or to enhance neurogenesis and/or enhance neurotrophic effects to an individual in need thereof. In some variations, a compound of the invention stimulates neurite outgrowth at a potency of about 1 μM as measured in a suitable assay such as the assays described herein. In some variations, a compound of the invention stimulates neurite outgrowth at a potency of about 500 nM as measured in a suitable assay such as the assays described herein. In some variations, a compound of the invention stimulates neurite outgrowth at a potency of about 50 nM as measured in a suitable assay such as the assays described herein. In some variations, a compound of the invention stimulates neurite outgrowth at a potency of about 5 nM as measured in a suitable assay such as the assays described herein.

Methods to Modulate an Aminergic G Protein-Coupled Receptor

The invention further contemplates methods for modulating the activity of an aminergic G-protein-coupled receptor comprising administering a compound of the invention or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof under conditions sufficient to modulate the activity of an aminergic G protein-coupled receptor. In some variations, the aminergic G protein-coupled receptor is a α_(1D), α_(2A), α_(2B) adrenergic receptor and a serotonin 5-HT₆ receptor. In some variations, the aminergic G protein-coupled receptor is a α_(1D), α_(2A), α_(2B) adrenergic receptor and a serotonin 5-HT₆ and 5-HT₇ receptor. In some variations, the aminergic G protein-coupled receptor is a α_(1D), α_(2A), α_(2B), adrenergic receptor, a serotonin 5-HT₆ and one or more of the following receptors: serotonin 5-HT₇, 5-HT_(2A) and 5-HT_(2C) and histamine H₁ and H₂ receptor. In some variations, the aminergic G protein-coupled receptor is a dopamine D₂ receptor. In some variations, the aminergic G protein-coupled receptor is a dopamine D_(2L) receptor. In some variations, the aminergic G protein-coupled receptor is a dopamine D₂ receptor and a serotonin 5-HT_(2A) receptor. In some variations, the aminergic G protein-coupled receptor is a dopamine D_(2L) receptor and a serotonin 5-HT_(2A) receptor. In some variations, the aminergic G protein-coupled receptor is a histamine H₁ receptor.

Dose-Dependent Therapy (DDT)

Dose dependent therapy refers to the concept that a single molecule may be used for different indications depending on the dose at which it is administered. It has been shown that compounds included in the invention exert pro-cognitive effects (where in one aspect pro-cognitive effects are achieved by reducing one or more symptoms associated with impaired cognition) when administered at low dose, whereas at high dose, these compounds induce both pro-cognitive and anti-psychotic effects (where in one aspect anti-psychotic effects are achieved by reducing one or more symptoms associated with a psychotic disorder). These compounds are further referred to as Dose-Dependent Therapy compounds (DDT compounds). When administered at high dose, DDT compounds in one aspect show fewer and/or lesser side-effects such as, e.g., extrapyramidal syndrome (EPS), as compared to other anti-psychotics, such as anti-psychotics which are not 5-HT_(2A) receptor modulators. It is believed that EPS is caused, at least in part, by high D₂ receptor occupancy, the effect of which can be counteracted by compounds displaying a high affinity to the serotonin receptor 5-HT_(2A). EPS can be determined using various scales known in the art such as the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS), Barnes Akathisia Rating Scale (BARS), Simpson-Angus Rating Scale (SARS), Extrapyramidal Symptoms Rating Scale (ESRS) and the Extrapyramidal Symptoms Rating Scale-Abbreviated (ESRS-A). DDT compounds in one aspect are 5-HT_(2A) modulators, and preferably are antagonists of 5-HT_(2A). In one variation, DDT compounds have low or no affinity for the histamine receptor H₁, which is also implicated in undesirable side effects such as metabolic syndrome, diabetes type 2, weight gain, hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, hypertension and drowsiness (Kroeze et al., Neuropsychopharmacology (2003) 28, 519-526).

DDT Compounds

DDT compounds modulate at least serotonin receptor 5-HT_(2A) and/or serotonin receptor 5-HT₆ and modulate dopamine receptor D₂, such as D_(2L). In one aspect, DDT compounds inhibit binding of a ligand to at least 5-HT_(2A) and/or 5-HT₆ and binding of a ligand to D₂. Inhibition of binding for all variations detailed herein is determined in a suitable assay known in the art, such as the assays described herein. In one aspect, DDT compounds act as antagonists of 5-HT_(2A) and/or 5-HT₆ and act as antagonists of D₂. In another aspect, DDT compounds act as antagonists of 5-HT_(2A) and D₂. In another aspect, DDT compounds act as antagonists of 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT₆ and D₂. In one variation, DDT compounds inhibit binding of a ligand to 5-HT_(2A) and/or 5-HT₆ by at least about 50% at a DDT concentration of about 0.1 μM and inhibit binding of a ligand to D₂ by at least about 90% at a DDT concentration of about 1 μM. In another variation, DDT compounds inhibit binding of a ligand to 5-HT_(2A) and/or 5-HT₆ by greater than about any of 50%, 60%, 70% and 80% at a DDT concentration of at least about 0.1 μM. In a further variation, DDT compounds inhibit binding of a ligand to 5-HT_(2A) and/or 5-HT₆ by greater than about any of 50%, 60%, 70% and 80% at a DDT concentration of less than about 0.1 μM (e.g., greater than about 0.01 μM and less than about 0.1 μM). In a further variation, DDT compounds inhibit binding of a ligand to 5-HT_(2A) and/or 5-HT₆ by at least about 80% at a DDT concentration of about 0.1 μM. In one variation, DDT compounds inhibit binding to of a ligand to D₂ by at least about 90% at a DDT concentration of greater than about 1 μM. In another variation, DDT compounds inhibit binding of a ligand to D₂ by at least about 90% at a DDT concentration of between about 1 μM to about 3 μM. In one variation, DDT compounds inhibit binding of Ketanserin, LSD and Spiperone to 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT₆ and D₂, respectively, as determined in the assays described herein. In another variation, binding of a ligand to 5-HT_(2A) and/or 5-HT₆ is inhibited by greater than about any of 80%, 85%, 90% and 95%, or by about 100% at a DDT concentration of about 0.1 μM. In a further variation, binding of a ligand to 5-HT_(2A) and/or 5-HT₆ is inhibited between about 85% to about 95% or between about 90% to about 100% at a DDT concentration of about 0.1 μM. In another variation, binding of a ligand to D₂ is inhibited by greater than about any of 90% and 95%, or by about 100% at a DDT concentration of about 1 μM. In a further variation, binding of a ligand to D₂ is inhibited by between about 90% to about 100% at a concentration of about 1 μM. In another variation, inhibition of binding of a ligand to 5-HT_(2A) and/or 5-HT₆ is at least 80%±20% at a DDT concentration of about 0.1 μM and binding of a ligand to D₂ is inhibited by at least about 90% at a concentration of about 1 μM as determined in assays known in the art. In one aspect, DDT compounds inhibit binding of a ligand to 5-HT_(2A) and D₂. In another aspect, DDT compounds inhibit binding of a ligand to 5-HT₆ and D₂. In yet another aspect, DDT compounds inhibit binding of a ligand to 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT₆ and D₂. In one variation, percent inhibition of binding to 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT₆ and D₂ is measured by assays detailed herein.

In one aspect, DDT compounds display low affinity to histamine receptor H₁. Compounds with low affinity to H₁ are those compounds which display less than about 80% inhibition of binding of a ligand to H₁. Inhibition of binding of a ligand to H₁ for all variations detailed herein is determined by a suitable assay known in the art such as the assay described herein. In some variations, DDT compounds inhibit binding of a ligand to H₁ by less than about any of 80%, 75%, 70%, 65%, 60% 55% and 50%. In one variation, DDT compounds inhibit binding of a ligand to H₁ by between about 50% to about 80%. In some variations, DDT compounds inhibit binding by less than about 80% at any DDT concentration, e.g., at about 0.1 μM to about 1 μM. In one variation, DDT compounds inhibit binding of Pyrilamine to H1 as determined in the assay described herein. In a further variation, percent inhibition of binding to H₁ is measured by assays detailed herein.

In some aspects, DDT compounds act as 5-HT_(2A) and D₂ antagonists. Antagonist activity for all variations is measured in suitable assays known in the art such as the assays described herein. In one variation, 5-HT_(2A) activity is inhibited by at least about 70% at a DDT concentration of about 0.1 μM. In another variation, 5-HT_(2A) activity is inhibited by greater than about any of 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or by about 100% at a DDT concentration of about 0.1 μM. In one variation, D₂ activity is inhibited by at least about 70% at a DDT concentration of about 1 μM. In another variation, D₂ activity is inhibited by greater than about any of 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or by about 100% at a DDT concentration of about 1 μM. In one variation, percent inhibition of activity is determined in the assays described herein. In one aspect, DDT compounds inhibit 5-HT_(2A) and D₂ activity. In another aspect, DDT compounds inhibit 5-HT_(2A), 5-HT₆ and D₂ activity.

In one aspect, DDT compounds display any of the activities detailed herein for DDT compounds and further have a structure of the formulae provided herein. In one aspect, DDT compounds contain a substituted vinyl moiety, such as a methylvinyl moiety. Accordingly, in a particular aspect, DDT compounds are of the formula (I-C), or any variation thereof, including compounds of the formulae (I-c1) and (I-c2), where at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than H, such as when at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is a C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, or C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl. DDT compounds may also be of the formula (I-D), or any variation thereof, including compounds of the formulae (I-d1) and (I-d2), where at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than H. In one variation, DDT compounds are of the formula (I-E), or any variation thereof, including compounds of the formulae (I-e1) and (I-e2). In another variation, DDT compounds are of the formula (I-F), or any variation thereof, including compounds of the formulae (I-f1) and (I-f2). In still another variation, DDT compounds are of the formula (J-1), or any variation thereof, including compounds of the formulae (J-1a) and (J-1b). In still another variation, DDT compounds are of the formula (J-2), or any variation thereof, including compounds of the formulae (J-1a) and (J-1b). DDT compounds may also be of the formula (J-1), (J-2), (J-3), (J-4), (J-5), (J-6), (J-7) or (J-8). In still another variation, DDT compounds are of the formula (I-G), or any variation thereof, including compounds of the formulae (I-g1) and (I-g2). In yet another variation, DDT compounds are of the formula (I-H), or any variation thereof, including compounds of the formulae (I-h1) and (I-h2). DDT compounds may also be of the formula (H-1), (H-2), (H-3), (H-4), (H-5), (H-6), (H-7) or (H-8). In another aspect, DDT compounds are of the formula (II-a1) or (II-b1) or (II-c1) or (II-d1) where at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than H (e.g., methyl). In another aspect, DDT compounds are of the formula (III) or any variation thereof where at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than H (e.g., methyl). In another aspect, DDT compounds are of the formula (V) or any variation thereof, such as formula (V-B), where at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than H (e.g., methyl).

DDT compounds may be present as pharmaceutically acceptable salts, or solvates thereof. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising a DDT compound and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier are also embraced. These pharmaceutical compositions may take a form suitable for oral, buccal, parenteral, nasal, topical or rectal administration or a form suitable for administration by inhalation.

High Dose

In one aspect, high dose of a DDT compound corresponds to an amount that results in at least 65% of receptor occupancy of dopamine receptor D₂, which may be assessed by known methods, such as Positron Emission Tomography (PET) (Pani et al., European Psychiatry (2007) 22, 276-275). In some variations, a high dose provides D₂ occupancy that is greater than any one of 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85% and 90%. In one variation, a high dose provides D₂ occupancy that is at least 65%. In another variation, a high dose provides a D₂ occupancy that is from at least 65% to 90%, or from at least 65% to 85%, or from at least 65% to 80%, or from at least 65% to 75%, or from at least 65% to 70%, or from at least 70% to 90%, or from at least 70% to 85%, or from at least 70% to 80%, or from at least 70% to 75%, or from at least 75% to 90%, or from at least 75% to 85%, or from at least 75% to 80%, or from at least 80% to 90%. In one variation, a high dose provides D₂ occupancy that is less than 80% and greater than 65%.

In another aspect, high dose of a DDT compound corresponds to a daily dose of at least about 1 mg/kg. In another variation, high dose corresponds to a daily dose of about 1 mg/kg. In another variation, high dose corresponds to a daily dose of at least about 1 mg/kg to at least about 3 mg/kg. In yet another variation, high dose corresponds to a daily dose of at least about 1 mg/kg to about 5 mg/kg. In a further variation, high dose corresponds to a daily dose of greater than 1 mg/kg.

In a further aspect, high dose of a DDT compound corresponds to an amount that induces anti-psychotic effects as determined by the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). In another variation, anti-psychotic effects are measured by one or more of the following: PANSS, Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), Positive symptom sub-scale of PANSS, Young Mania Rating Scale (Y-MRS), Mania Rating Scale (MRS). In a further variation, anti-psychotic effects are measured by another scale and/or test known in the art.

In another aspect of the invention, high dose of a DDT compound corresponds to at least about 100 times the amount that induces pro-cognitive effects but does not induce anti-psychotic effects. In one variation, pro-cognitive effects are determined by cognition scales known in the art such as the Measurement and Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia MATRICS. In another variation, pro-cognitive effects are determined by measuring the cognitive components of one or more of the following scales and/or tests: MATRICS, Negative Symptoms Assessment scale (NSA), Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms (SANS), Schedule for the Deficit Syndrome (GDS), Negative symptom sub-scale of PANSS, MATRICS Consensus Cognition Battery (MCCB), CNSVitalSigns, CogState battery, Cognitive Drug Research battery (CDR), Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia (BACS), Schizophrenia Cognition Rating Scale (SCoRS), Clinical Global Impression of Cognition in Schizophrenia (CGI-CogS), Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS), Test of Adaptive Behavior in Schizophrenia (TABS), Independent Living Skills Inventory (ILS), UCSD Performance-Based Skills Assessment (UPSA), Cognitive Assessment Interview (CAI), Global Assessment of Function from CAI (GAF), Quality of Life Scale (QLS), Maryland Assessment of Social Competence (MASC), Calgary Depression Scale (CDS), and Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). In a further variation, pro-cognitive effects are determined by another scale and/or test known in the art.

Low Dose

In one aspect, low dose of a DDT compound corresponds to an amount that results in less than 65% receptor occupancy of dopamine receptor D₂. In some variations, a low dose provides D₂ occupancy that is less than any one of 65%, 60%, 55% and 50%.

In another aspect, low dose of a DDT compound corresponds to a daily dose of about 0.03 mg/kg. In another variation, low dose corresponds to a daily dose of about 0.03 to about 0.3 mg/kg. In another variation, low dose corresponds to a daily dose of about 0.3 mg/kg. In yet another variation, low dose corresponds to a daily dose of about 0.03 to about 1 mg/kg. In a further variation, low dose corresponds to a daily dose of about 0.01 mg/kg. In yet another variation, low dose corresponds to a daily dose of 0.01 to about 1 mg/kg. In a further variation, low dose corresponds to a daily dose of about 0.5 mg/kg. In yet another variation, low dose corresponds to a daily dose of less than about 0.5 mg/kg. In another variation, low dose corresponds to a daily dose of less than 1 mg/kg.

In a further aspect, low dose of a DDT compound corresponds to an amount that induces pro-cognitive effects as determined by cognition scales such as MATRICS but does not induce anti-psychotic effects. In another variation, pro-cognitive effects are determined by measuring the cognitive components of one or more of the following scales and/or tests: MATRICS, Negative Symptoms Assessment scale (NSA), Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms (SANS), Schedule for the Deficit Syndrome (GDS), Negative symptom sub-scale of PANSS, MATRICS Consensus Cognition Battery (MCCB), CNSVitalSigns, CogState battery, Cognitive Drug Research battery (CDR), Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia (BACS), Schizophrenia Cognition Rating Scale (SCoRS), Clinical Global Impression of Cognition in Schizophrenia (CGI-CogS), Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS), Test of Adaptive Behavior in Schizophrenia (TABS), Independent Living Skills Inventory (ILS), UCSD Performance-Based Skills Assessment (UPSA), Cognitive Assessment Interview (CAI), Global Assessment of Function from CAI (GAF), Quality of Life Scale (QLS), Maryland Assessment of Social Competence (MASC), Calgary Depression Scale (CDS), and Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). In a further variation, pro-cognitive effects are determined by another scale and/or test known in the art.

In another aspect of the invention, low dose of a DDT compound corresponds to at least about 1/100 the amount that induces anti-psychotic effects. In one variation, anti-psychotic effects are determined by assays such as PANSS. In another variation, anti-psychotic effects are measured by one or more of the following: PANSS, Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), Positive symptom sub-scale of PANSS, Young Mania Rating Scale (Y-MRS), Mania Rating Scale (MRS). In a further variation, anti-psychotic effects are measured by another scale and/or test known in the art.

Unit Dosage Forms

DDT compounds may be provided in various unit dosage forms. In one aspect, single therapy dosages are provided. In one variation, a unit dosage form comprises a low dose as described herein of a DDT compound. In another variation, a unit dosage form comprises a high dose as described herein of a DDT compound.

In another aspect, combination therapy dosage forms are provided. In one variation, combination dosage forms comprise a low dose as described herein of a DDT compound and a second drug suitable for anti-psychotic therapy. In another variation, combination dosage forms comprise a high dose as described herein of a DDT compound and a second drug suitable for anti-psychotic therapy.

Kits

The present invention further provides for kits comprising DDT compounds with instructions for achieving pro-cognitive effects at low dose as detailed herein or pro-cognitive effects and anti-psychotic effects at high dose as detailed herein. In one aspect, kits comprise a low dose of a DDT compound and instructions for achieving only pro-cognitive effects. In some variations, pro-cognitive effects include (i) improvement of CIAS such as improvement of any one or more of memory (e.g., short term memory, working memory, social memory), attention, impulsivity, verbal fluency and executive function and/or (ii) improvement of negative symptoms of schizophrenia such as improvement of any one or more of blunted affect, avolition, anhedonia, alogia, dysphoria, suicidality, hopelessness, depression and low mood. Thus, kits for use to achieve pro-cognitive effects in one aspect comprise a low dose of a DDT compound as described herein. In another variation, kits for use to achieve pro-cognitive effects comprise a unit dosage form containing a low dose of a DDT compound as described herein.

In a further aspect, kits of the present invention comprise a high dose of a DDT compound and instructions for achieving both pro-cognitive and anti-psychotic effects. In some variations, anti-psychotic effects comprise improvement of any one or more of psychotic symptoms such as positive symptoms of schizophrenia (e.g., delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thought and agitation). Kits comprising a high dose of a DDT compound may be used to achieve one or more pro-cognitive effects and one or more anti-psychotic effects. Thus, kits for use to achieve pro-cognitive and anti-psychotic effects in one aspect comprise a high dose of a DDT compound as described herein. In another variation, kits for use to achieve pro-cognitive and anti-psychotic effects comprise a unit dosage form containing a high dose of a DDT compound as detailed herein. In a further variation, kits for use to achieve pro-cognitive and anti-psychotic effects comprise a low dose of a DDT compound and a second drug suitable for anti-psychotic therapy. In yet another variation, kits for use to achieve pro-cognitive and anti-psychotic effects comprise a high dose of a DDT compound and a second drug suitable for anti-psychotic therapy. In one aspect, kits for use to achieve pro-cognitive and anti-psychotic effects comprise DDT compounds in unit dosage forms as detailed herein.

Methods of Treatment

The invention provides methods of treating diseases or conditions in which cognition and/or psychosis are implicated. The present invention provides methods of treating cognitive disorders and/or psychotic disorders by administering a DDT compound at a pharmaceutically effective dose to a subject in need thereof. In one variation, cognitive disorder as used herein includes and intends disorders that contain a cognitive component, such as psychotic disorders (e.g., schizophrenia) containing a cognitive component (e.g., CIAS). In one variation, psychotic disorder as used herein includes and intends disorders that contain a psychotic component, for example cognitive disorders (e.g., Alzheimer's disease) that contain a psychotic component (e.g., psychosis of Alzheimer's Disease or dementia).

In one aspect, the present invention encompasses methods of improving cognition by administering a DDT compound at a pharmaceutically effective dose to a subject in need thereof. In one variation, improving cognition comprises reducing one or more symptoms associated with impaired cognition. In a further aspect, the present invention provides methods of (i) improving cognition and (ii) reducing symptoms associated with psychotic disorders in a subject in need thereof. In yet another aspect, the present invention encompasses methods of improving cognition and not reducing symptoms associated with psychotic disorders in a subject in need thereof. In yet a further aspect, the present invention provides methods of improving cognition and not significantly reducing symptoms associated with psychotic disorders in a subject in need thereof. In some variations, a subject in need thereof is an individual who is refractory to other pro-cognitive and/or anti-psychotic therapy.

In one aspect, the invention is directed to methods of improving cognition and/or reducing symptoms associated with impaired cognition by administering a DDT compound at either low or high dose. In one variation improving cognition comprises (i) improvement of CIAS such as improvement of any one or more of memory (e.g., short term memory, working memory, social memory), attention, impulsivity, verbal fluency and executive function and/or (ii) improvement of negative symptoms of schizophrenia such as improvement of any one or more of blunted affect, avolition, anhedonia, alogia, dysphoria, suicidality, hopelessness, depression and low mood.

In a further aspect, the invention provides methods of both (i) improving cognition (e.g., as set forth herein) and/or reducing symptoms associated with impaired cognition and (ii) reducing symptoms associated with psychotic disorders by administering a DDT compound at high dose. In one variation, reducing symptoms associated with psychotic disorders comprises improvement of any one or more of psychotic symptoms such as positive symptoms of schizophrenia (e.g., delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thought and agitation). In one variation, the invention is directed to methods of treating schizophrenia by administering a high dose of a DDT compound. In another variation, the invention provides methods of reducing one or more symptom of positive symptoms of schizophrenia by administering a high dose of a DDT compound. In a further variation, the invention encompasses methods of reducing one or more symptom of positive and/or one or more symptom of negative symptoms of schizophrenia by administering a high dose of a DDT compound. In yet another variation, the invention provides methods of reducing one or more symptom of positive symptoms and/or one or more symptom of CIAS by administering a high dose of a DDT compound. In yet another variation, the invention provides methods of reducing one or more symptom of positive symptoms and/or one or more symptom of negative symptoms and/or one or more of disorganized symptoms of schizophrenia by administering a high dose of a DDT compound.

In another aspect, the invention is directed to methods of improving cognition and/or reducing symptoms associated with impaired cognition and not reducing symptoms associated with psychotic disorders by administering a DDT compound at low dose. In one variation improving cognition comprises (i) improvement of CIAS such as improvement of any one or more of memory (e.g., short term memory, working memory, social memory), attention, impulsivity, verbal fluency and executive function and/or (ii) improvement of negative symptoms of schizophrenia such as improvement of any one or more of blunted affect, avolition, anhedonia, alogia, dysphoria, suicidality, hopelessness, depression and low mood.

In yet another aspect, the invention encompasses methods of improving cognition and/or reducing symptoms associated with impaired cognition without significantly improving symptoms associated with psychotic disorders by administering a DDT compound at low dose.

Methods of Manufacturing a Medicament

In a further aspect of the invention use of DDT compounds and compositions thereof in the manufacture of a medicament is provided. Particularly, the manufacture of a medicament for use in the treatment of diseases or conditions in which cognition and/or psychosis are implicated are described herein. Further, pharmaceutical compositions of DDT compounds are also intended for use in the manufacture of a medicament for use in treatment of diseases or conditions in which cognition and/or psychosis are implicated.

Method of Determining a Dose/Treatment

The present invention further encompasses methods of determining a suitable or optimal dose of a DDT compound to either (i) achieve pro-cognitive effects alone or (ii) achieve both pro-cognitive effects and anti-psychotic effects in an individual in need thereof. In one aspect, a suitable dose is determined by measuring the percentage of D₂ occupancy and adjusting an individual's dosage in response thereto. In one variation, dosage is increased to achieve anti-psychotic effects if D₂ occupancy is less than 65% as determined by methods known in the art such as PET. In another variation, dosage is increased to achieve anti-psychotic effects if D₂ occupancy is less than any one of 65%, 60%, 55%, and 50%. In a further variation, dosage is reduced to achieve pro-cognitive and not anti-psychotic effects if D₂ occupancy is at least 65%. In yet another variation, dosage is reduced to achieve pro-cognitive and not anti-psychotic effects if D₂ occupancy is at greater than any one of 65%, 70%, 75%, 80% and 90%. In a further variation, dosage is reduced to achieve pro-cognitive and no significant anti-psychotic effects if D₂ occupancy is greater than 65%. One indication of at least 65% D2 occupancy or greater than any one of 65%, 70%, 75%, 80% and 90% D2 occupancy is the reduction in the number or severity of one or more symptoms associated with a psychotic disorder.

In another aspect, a suitable dose is determined by assessing pro-cognitive and/or anti-psychotic effects in an individual and adjusting an individual's dosage in response thereto. For example, in one variation, an individual's dosage is increased from a first dosage to a higher, second dosage, in order to achieve anti-psychotic effects at the second dosage level, if it is determined that the first dosage does not induce anti-psychotic effects in the individual, as may be assessed by suitable test and/or scales known in the art. In another variation, dosage is reduced from a first dosage to a lower, second dosage wherein the second dosage still achieves anti-psychotic effects but reduces side effects as compared to the first dosage. Side effects may be determined by suitable tests and/or scales known in the art. In another variation, dosage is decreased from a first dosage to a lower, second dosage, in order to achieve pro-cognitive and not anti-psychotic effects. In another variation, dosage is decreased from a first dosage to a lower, second dosage, in order to achieve pro-cognitive and not anti-psychotic effects and wherein the dosage induces fewer or lesser side effects than the first dosage. Thus, in yet another variation, dosage is reduced to a minimum dosage which still achieves pro-cognitive effects but reduces side-effects as determined by suitable tests and/or scales.

In one aspect, an individual's therapy is monitored as set forth above for a period of time, such as one week, two weeks, three weeks, one month, two months, three months, four months, five months, 6 months or more (such as throughout the course of an individual's therapy), to adjust an individual's dosage level as needed. As such, individualized therapy as detailed herein provides for methods of measuring therapeutic parameters and adjusting dosage in response thereto in order to achieve an optimal dosage amount according to an individual's initial and continued response to therapy.

General Synthetic Methods

The compounds of the invention may be prepared by a number of processes as generally described below and more specifically in the Examples hereinafter. In the following process descriptions, the symbols when used in the formulae depicted are to be understood to represent those groups described above in relation to formula (I), (II), (III), (IV), (V), (VI), (VII) or (VIII) or a variation thereof unless otherwise indicated.

Where it is desired to obtain a particular enantiomer of a compound, this may be accomplished from a corresponding mixture of enantiomers using any suitable conventional procedure for separating or resolving enantiomers. Thus, for example, diastereomeric derivatives may be produced by reaction of a mixture of enantiomers, e.g. a racemate, and an appropriate chiral compound. The diastereomers may then be separated by any convenient means, for example by crystallization and the desired enantiomer recovered. In another resolution process, a racemate may be separated using chiral High Performance Liquid Chromatography. Alternatively, if desired a particular enantiomer may be obtained by using an appropriate chiral intermediate in one of the processes described.

Chromatography, recrystallization and other conventional separation procedures may also be used with intermediates or final products where it is desired to obtain a particular isomer of a compound or to otherwise purify a product of a reaction.

The following abbreviations are used herein: thin layer chromatography (TLC); hour (h); minute (min.); second (sec.); ethanol (EtOH); dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO); N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF); trifluoroacetic acid (TFA); tetrahydrofuran (THF); EtOAc (EtOAc); Normal (N); aqueous (aq.); methanol (MeOH); dichloromethane (DCM); RT (RT); Retention factor (Rf).

A method of synthesizing carboline intermediates used in the synthesis of compounds of the invention is shown as General Method 1. Although identifiers such as R⁴ and R¹ are shown in the method below, it is understood that these moieties apply to the compounds detailed herein even if different identifiers or variations thereof are used elsewhere (e.g., it is understood that compounds may include more than one R⁴).

General Method 1.

Compound A (1 equiv.) and compound B (0.76-1.4 equiv.) are mixed in a suitable solvent such as EtOH and heated at 80° C. for 16 h (overnight) after which the solvent is removed in vacuo. The remaining residue is basified, e.g., with saturated aq. NaHCO₃. The aqueous layer is extracted with DCM and the combined organic layers are dried over sodium sulfate, concentrated in vacuo, and purified, e.g., by silica gel chromatography (230-400 mesh) using a suitable solvent gradient such as either a MeOH-DCM gradient or an EtOAc-hexane gradient.

Representative carboline compounds prepared according to General Method 1 are shown in Table 1.

TABLE 1 Representative Carboline Compounds Compound Compound No. Structure No. Structure 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

A method of synthesizing epoxide intermediates used in the synthesis of compounds of the invention is shown as General Method 2. Although identifiers such as R⁹ and R are shown in the method below, it is understood that these moieties apply to the compounds detailed herein even if different identifiers or variations thereof are used elsewhere. It is also understood that modifications to the specific materials shown are intended, e.g., where Compound L can be a heteroaryl group such as pyridyl.

General Method 2.

DMSO is added to NaH 60% dispersion in oil (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF (10 mL) is added to the solution at 65° C. and heating is continued for another 10 min. The reaction mixture is then cooled to 0° C. and Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added. The reaction mixture is stirred for another 10 min. after which appropriate aldehyde/ketone (1 equiv.) is added as a solution in THF. The reaction mixture is further stirred at RT until the reaction is complete (monitored by TLC and LCMS). The reaction mixture is then poured in ice water and the product is extracted in organic solvent (ether or EtOAc), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to obtain the product.

Representative oxirane compounds prepared according to General Method 2 are shown in Table 2.

TABLE 2 Representative Oxirane Compounds Compound Compound No. Structure No. Structure 19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

33

34

35

36

37

38

39

40

41

42

167

168

169

170

A general method of synthesizing alcohol intermediates by epoxide ring opening using a carboline is shown as General Method 3. Although identifiers such as R², R³, etc. are shown in the method below, it is understood that these moieties apply to the compounds detailed herein even if different identifiers or variations thereof are used elsewhere. For example, although compound C in the method below lists substituent identifier R², it is understood that compound C is the same as that obtained from General Method 1 which utilizes identifier R⁴. It is also understood that modifications to the specific materials shown are intended, e.g., where Compound L can be a heteroaryl group such as pyridyl.

General Method 3.

Compound C (1 equiv.), compound L (2-7.5 equiv.) and NaH (1-3 equiv.) are heated in DMF at 120° C. for 16 h. The contents are quenched by MeOH and evaporated to dryness. The resulting crude product is purified by silica gel chromatography (230-400 mesh) using MeOH-DCM gradient followed by reverse-phase chromatography (C-18, 500 mm×50 mm, Mobile Phase A=0.05% TFA in water, B=0.05% TFA in acetonitrile, Gradient: 10% B to 80% B in 30 min., injection vol. 5 mL).

Representative pyrido[4,3b]indo-5-yl alcohol compounds prepared according to General Method 3 are shown in Table 3.

TABLE 3 Representative Pyrido[4,3b]indo-5-yl Alcohol Compounds Compound Compound No. Structure No. Structure 43

44

45

46

47

48

49

50

51

52

53

54

55

56

57

58

59

60

61

62

63

64

65

66

67

68

69

70

71

72

73

74

75

76

77

78

79

80

81

82

171

172

173

174

175

176

177

178

180

181

182

183

184

185

186

187

188

189

190

191

192

193

194

195

196

197

198

199

200

341

342

343

344

345

464

465

466

467

468

469

470

A method of synthesizing certain compounds by dehydration of alcohol intermediates is shown as General Method 4. Although identifiers such as R², R³, etc. are shown in the method below, it is understood that these moieties apply to the compounds detailed herein even if different identifiers or variations thereof are used elsewhere. It is also understood that modifications to the specific materials shown are intended.

General Method 4.

Indol-5-yl alcohol derivative (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid until the reaction is complete. The reaction mixture is then cooled to 5° C. and basified with KOH to pH 9-10. The product is extracted in EtOAc, extracts are washed with 10 mL of water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum to obtain the crude product that is purified by silica gel chromatography and/or HPLC.

Certain compounds detailed herein are synthesized according to General Method 5.

General Method 5.

To a solution of appropriate 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1 equiv.) in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone is added KOH (7 equiv.). The reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 20 min. A solution of appropriate 2-bromoethanone (1 equiv.) in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone is added dropwise and stirring is continued for additional 2-4 h. The reaction is monitored by LCMS and TLC. The reaction mixture is diluted by adding water and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer is washed with water, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue is purified by silica gel chromatography.

Appropriate 2-(3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)ethanone (100 mg, 3 mmol) is dissolved in toluene and (carbethoxymethylene)triphenylphosphorane (200 mg, 0.56 mmol) is added. The reaction mixture is heated overnight at 100° C. Solvent is removed under reduced pressure and the residue is purified by silica gel chromatography.

Representative compounds prepared according to the General Methods described herein are shown in Table 4. Isomeric compounds obtained by the Methods are shown in Table 5.

TABLE 4 Representative Compounds Containing Rigid Linkers Compound Compound No. Structure No. Structure 83

84

85

86

87

88

89

90

91

92

93

94

95

96

97

98

99

100

101

102

103

104

105

106

107

108

109

110

111

112

113

114

115

116

117

118

119

120

121

122

123

125

126

127

202

203

204

205

206

207

208

209

210

211

212

213

214

215

216

217

218

219

220

221

222

223

224

225

226

227

228

229

230

231

232

233

234

235

236

237

238

239

240

241

242

243

244

245

246

247

248

249

250

251

252

253

254

255

256

257

258

259

260

261

262

263

264

265

266

267

268

269

270

271

272

273

274

275

276

277

278

279

280

281

282

283

284

285

286

287

288

289

290

291

292

293

294

295

296

297

298

299

300

301

302

303

304

305

306

307

308

309

310

311

312

313

314

315

316

317

318

319

320

321

322

323

324

325

326

327

328

329

330

331

332

333

334

335

336

337

338

339

340

346

367

368

369

370

371

372

373

374

375

376

377

378

379

380

381

382

383

384

385

386

387

388

389

390

391

392

393

394

395

396

397

398

399

400

401

402

403

404

405

406

407

409

410

411

412

413

414

415

416

417

418

419

420

421

422

423

424

425

426

427

428

429

430

431

432

433

435

436

437

438

439

440

441

442

443

444

445

446

447

448

449

450

451

452

453

454

455

456

457

458

459

460

461

462

471

472

473

474

475

476

477

478

479

480

481

482

483

484

485

486

487

488

489

490

491

492

493

494

495

496

497

498

499

500

Although certain compounds of Table 4 are explicitly listed as both the (Z) and the (E) form (e.g., Compound 83 is the (E) form and Compound 397 is the (Z) form), it is understood that all forms of compounds of Table 4 are intended. Thus, for compounds of Table 4 that are listed only as a single form, it is understood that all other forms are also embraced by the invention and are provided herein the same as if each and every stereochemical form were specifically and individually listed. In particular, where only the (Z) form of a compound is listed in Table 4, the (E) form of such compound is also provided herein the same as if the (E) form were specifically and individually listed in Table 4. Likewise, where only the (E) form of a compound is listed in Table 4, the (Z) form of such compound is also provided herein the same as if the (Z) form were specifically and individually listed in Table 4.

TABLE 5 Additional compounds Compound No. Structure 128

129

130

131

132

133

134

135

136

137

138

139

140

141

142

143

144

145

146

147

148

149

150

151

152

153

154

155

156

347

348

349

350

351

352

353

354

355

356

357

358

359

360

361

362

363

364

365

408

Compounds of formula (II) may be prepared by the reaction schemes shown below. Representative examples shown below may be prepared by the methods suggested in Table 6.

TABLE 6 Representative compounds of formula (II) Com- General pound method of No. Structure preparation 157

Scheme A 158

Scheme A 159

Scheme A 160

Scheme A 161

Scheme B 164

Scheme B 165

Scheme B 166

Scheme B 201

Scheme B

General Method 6. General Method of Synthesis using Scheme A

Step 1: Synthesis of the Carbolines:

The carbolines in Scheme A can be obtained by the reaction of a suitably substituted phenyl hydrazine with 1-methyl-4-piperidone, under standard conditions. Typically, 1-methyl-4-piperidone (1 equiv.) and appropriately substituted arylhydrazine hydrochloride (1 equiv.) are refluxed in a mixture of 7% sulfuric acid in 1,4-dioxane overnight under nitrogen. The mixture is poured on to ice and basified with 50% aq NaOH. The resulting precipitate is filtered, washed well with water, and dried in air to provide the substituted 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole derivative.

Step 2: Synthesis of 1-cycloalkenyl-4-halobenzenes:

Compounds I through IV in Scheme A can be obtained, e.g., by the methods described in Barbero et al., Tet. Letters (1992), 33(39):5841-42.

Step 3: The reaction of 1-cycloalkenyl-4-halobenzene with carbolines:

Typically, a mixture appropriately substituted 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1 equiv.), 1-cycloalkenyl-4-halobenzene (3 equiv.) and KOH (7 equiv.) in NMP (0.5 mL/mmol) is stirred and heated at 100° C. for 3 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and diluted by adding ice and satd. aqueous NaCl. The aqueous layer is extracted with EtOAc and organic layer is washed with brine, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain the product.

In each of the cases shown in Scheme A the final compounds are mixtures of isomers illustrated below. While the route suggested in scheme A provides access to the chemically pure compounds, the separation of isomers is a secondary step that has to be carried out in order to complete the synthesis of the unique isomers, if required.

Synthesis of Intermediates I through IV in Scheme A

It is envisaged that intermediate I through IV would be synthesized using methodologies akin to, but not limited to those described in Barbero et al., Tet. Letters (1992), 33(39):5841-42, which describes the synthesis of a molecule such as intermediate IV, without the p-fluoro group on the phenyl ring.

General Method 7. General Method of Synthesis using Scheme B

Step 1: Synthesis of the Carbolines:

The carbolines in scheme B can be obtained by the reaction of a suitably substituted phenyl hydrazine with 1-methyl-4-piperidone, under standard conditions. Typically 1-methyl-4-piperidone (1 equiv.) and appropriately substituted arylhydrazine hydrochloride (1 equiv.) are refluxed in a mixture of 7% sulfuric acid in 1,4-dioxane overnight under nitrogen. The mixture is poured on to ice and basified with 50% aq NaOH. The resulting precipitate is filtered, washed well with water, and dried in air to provide substituted 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole derivative.

Step 2: Synthesis of 1-(4-halophenyl)-5-oxabicyclo[m.n.0]alkanes:

Compounds V through VIII in Scheme B can be obtained by, e.g., the methods outlined in Yu & Corey, Org. Letters (2002), 4(16):2727-30.

Step 3: Synthesis of 1-(4-halophenyl)-5-oxabicyclo[m.n.0]alkanes with carbolines:

Typically, appropriately substituted 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1 equiv.) is dissolved in DMF (2 mL/mmol). To this solution sodium hydride (2.2 equiv.) is added in portions at RT and stirred for 10 min. Appropriate 1-(4-halophenyl)-5-oxabicyclo[m.n.0]alkanes (2 equiv.) in DMF (0.5 mL/mmol) is added dropwise for 10 min. and stirred overnight at RT. The reaction mixture is quenched with MeOH and concentrated to dryness. Water is added to the residue and product is extracted in EtOAc. The organic layer is dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and evaporated under reduced pressure to obtain the product.

Step 4: Dehydration Step:

Typically, appropriately substituted 2-(3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)ethanol (1 equiv.) is taken in 25% aqueous sulfuric acid, and stirred at 90° C. for 3 h. The reaction mixture is cooled and basified with aq. KOH solution and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer is dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and evaporated under reduced pressure to obtain the product.

Synthesis of Intermediates V through VIII in Scheme B

It is envisaged that intermediate V through VIII would be synthesized using methodologies akin to, but not limited to those described in Yu & Corey, Org. Letters (2002), 4(16):2727-30, which describes the synthesis of a molecule such as intermediate VII, without the p-fluoro group on the phenyl ring.

The compounds depicted may be prepared as salts even if salts are not depicted and it is understood that the invention embraces all salts and solvates of the compounds depicted here, as well as the non-salt and non-solvate form of the compound, as is well understood by the skilled artisan.

A representative compound was prepared as shown in Scheme C.

General Method 8. General Method of Synthesis using Scheme C

Step 1: Synthesis of the Carboline 1:

Sulfuric acid (3.5 mL) is added to a solution of 4-chlorophenylhydrazine hydrochloride (1 equiv.) in dioxane (50 mL), and stirred for 5 min. at RT. N-methyl-4-piperidone (1 equiv.) is added and the mixture is heated at 80° C. for 2 h. After completion of reaction (as analyzed by TLC), reaction mixture is concentrated to approximately 20 mL under reduced pressure and basified to pH 10 using 10% aqueous KOH solution, extracted with EtOAc, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure to obtain the desired compound.

Step 2: Synthesis of 4-cyclohexenylpyridine:

Compounds IX can be obtained by methods outlined in, Barbero et al., Tet. Letters (1992), 33(39):5841-42.

Step 3: The Reaction of Carboline Cl with 3-cyclohexenylpyridine:

To a solution of 8-chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.1 g, 0.45 mmol) in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (1.0 mL) is added powdered KOH (0.140 g, 2.5 mmol) and stirred for 10 min. at RT. 3-Cyclohexenylpyridine (1.25 mmol) is added and the reaction mixture is stirred for additional 4 h at 100° C. After completion of reaction (as analyzed by TLC), reaction mixture is diluted with water (15 mL) and extracted with EtOAc (3×20 mL). The organic layer is dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure to obtain the product.

Certain compounds detailed herein are synthesized according to General Method 9.

General Method 9.

A pyrido[4,3-b]indole compound such as ones listed in Table 1 is coupled with an appropriately substituted vinyl bromide under similar conditions as described in Examples 293 and 294 to give 5-vinyl-pyrido[4,3-b]indole compounds as shown in Scheme D.

General Method 10

Alkynes of the type shown in Scheme E can be prepared by coupling a carboline of the type in Table 1 with an appropriately substituted phenyl-acetylene, or similar acetylene-linked aromatic compound, using copper/phenanthroline coupling agents as described in Examples 475-498, or by treatment of the carboline with base followed by addition of a haloethynyl-benzene. Alternatively, the fluorinated alkene products can be synthesized from the intermediate alkyne compound by palladium-mediated coupling with a haloaromatic in the presence of fluoride ion, as described in Examples 353 or 379.

The methods detailed above may be adapted as known by those of skill in the art to make compounds detailed herein. Particular examples of each of the General Methods are provided in the Examples below.

The following Examples are provided to illustrate but not to limit the invention.

All references disclosed herein are incorporated by reference in their entireties.

EXAMPLES Example 1 Preparation of 8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 1)

Sulfuric acid (3.5 mL) was added to a solution of 4-chlorophenylhydrazine hydrochloride (2.0 g, 11.2 mmol) in dioxane (50 mL), and stirred for 5 min. at RT. N-methyl piperidone (0.76-1.4 equiv.) was added and the mixture was heated at 80° C. for 2 h. After reaction completion as determined by thin layer chromatography (TLC), the reaction mixture was concentrated to approximately 20 mL under reduced pressure and basified to pH 10 using a 10% aqueous KOH solution. The reaction product was extracted with EtOAc (3×50 mL), dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure using a rotary evaporator to obtain the product (1.3 g) as a brown solid. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.40 (s, 1H), 7.20-7.10 (d, 1H), 7.10-7.00 (d, 1H), 3.60 (s, 2H), 2.90 (s, 4H), 2.60 (s, 3H).

Example 1A

4-Chlorophenyl hydrazine hydrochloride (30 g, 167.59 mmol) was dissolved in dioxane (300 mL) and 1-methyl-4-piperidone (28 mL, 234.63 mmol) was added. Sulfuric acid (14.4 mL) was added dropwise and the mixture was heated at 80° C. for 3 h. After completion of reaction (monitored by TLC), the dioxane layer was decanted and the residue was basified with 10% aqueous KOH solution. The resulting solid was filtered and washed with water (2 L) and finally with hexane (500 mL). The product was dried under vacuum at RT. Yield: 30 g as a light brown solid.

Example 2 Preparation of 2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 3)

Sulfuric acid (2 mL) was added to a solution of p-tolyl hydrazine hydrochloride (6.0 g, 37 mmol) in dioxane (60 mL), and stirred for 5 min. at RT. N-Methyl piperidone (5.03 g, 41 mmol) was added and the mixture was heated at 80° C. for 2 h. After reaction completion as determined by TLC), the reaction mixture was concentrated to approximately 20 mL under reduced pressure and basified to pH 10 using 10% aqueous KOH solution. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×300 mL), dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure using a rotary evaporator to provide the desired compound as a brown colored solid (4.0 g, 52% yield). ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, di-HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.20-7.10 (d, 1H), 7.10-7.00 (d, 1H), 3.80 (s, 2H), 2.90 (s, 4H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H).

Example 2A

Water (26.25 kg) was charged to a 50-L glass cylindrical jacketed reactor followed by p-tolylhydrazine HCl 7 (1.75 kg). Dissolution occurred after 15 min of stirring at RT and N-methyl-4-piperidone (1.56 kg) was added over a period of 4 min. The batch was heated to a range of 45-55° C. and concentrated HCl was added (37%, 3.97 kg) over 50 min. The solution was held for 17 h before a sample was taken, at which point the HPLC IPC indicated 0.07A % p-tolylhydrazine remaining. The reaction was cooled to 30-45° C. and addition of approximately 4.5 L of 6.25 N NaOH brought the solution to pH 3.2. Slight precipitation that occurred at this pH did not re-dissolve after the addition was discontinued. MTBE (1.94 kg) was added and precipitation continued upon further addition of approximately 4 L of 6.25 N NaOH to bring the final pH to 12.4. The suspension was allowed to stir for 30 min at 30-45° C. and was cooled over 1.5 h to a range of 5-15° C. The batch was held for 30 min followed by a fast filtration. The cake was washed with water (8.75 kg) and cold MTBE (3.89 kg) and conditioned on the filter for 1 h before being transferred to drying trays. The batch was dried under reduced pressure at 70° C. for 68 h to reduce the water level to <1.0%. The carboline free base (1.99 kg) was isolated in 90% yield (>99.9A % by HPLC). ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, free base) δ (ppm) 7.2 (d, 1H), 7.15 (s, 1H), 6.95 (d, 1H), 4.5 (m, 1H), 4.2 (m, 1H), 3.6 (m, 1H), 3.2 (m, 1H), 3.0 (m, 2H), 2.9 (s, 3H), 2.4 (s, 3H).

Example 3 Preparation of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 5)

Phenyl hydrazine hydrochloride (1 equiv.) and 1-methylpiperidin-4-one hydrochloride (0.76-1.4 equiv.) is dissolved in EtOH and stirred at 80-90° C. overnight. The reaction is monitored by TLC. Upon completion, the reaction mixture is cooled to RT and the solvent is evaporated to dryness. The residue is dissolved in EtOAc and washed with a saturated sodium bicarbonate solution. The organic layer is dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and evaporated to dryness to afford 2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole.

Example 3A

Phenyl hydrazine hydrochloride (5 g, 34.57 mmol) and 1-methylpiperidin-4-one hydrochloride (4.5 g, 30.1 mmol, 1 eq.) was dissolved in of ethanol (150 mL) and stirred at 80-90° C. for overnight. The reaction was monitored by TLC. The mixture was cooled to RT, solvent was concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was dissolved in EtOAc, washed with saturated sodium bicarbonate solution. Organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure to afford 3.0 g of 2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm) 8.0 (bs, 1H), 7.4 (d, 1H), 7.35 (d, 1H), 7.20-7.0 (m, 2H), 3.7 (s, 2H), 2.9 (s, 4H), 2.6 (s, 3H).

Example 4 Preparation of 2-ethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 7)

To a solution of phenylhydrazine hydrochloride (1 equiv.) in EtOH is added 1-ethylpiperidin-4-one hydrochloride (0.76-1.4 equiv.) and the reaction mixture is heated at 80° C. for 16 h. After completion of the reaction, e.g., as monitored by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LCMS), the reaction mixture is concentrated to dryness and basified with aq. saturated NaHCO₃ and extracted in EtOAc. The organic layer is separated, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated to obtain 2-ethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole.

Example 4A

To a solution of phenylhydrazine hydrochloride (1 equiv) in ethanol was added 1-ethylpiperidin-4-one hydrochloride (1 equiv) and heated at 80° C. for 16 h. After completion of the reaction (monitored by LCMS). The reaction mixture was concentrated under vacuum and basified with aq. saturated NaHCO₃, extracted with EtOAc, the organic layer was separated dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure to obtain 2-ethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm) 7.8 (bs, 1H), 7.4 (d, 1H), 7.20-7.0 (m, 3H), 3.7 (s, 2H), 2.9 (s, 4H), 2.7-2.6 (q, 2H), 1.2 (t, 3H).

Example 5 Preparation of 2-ethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 9)

To a solution of p-tolylhydrazine hydrochloride (1 equiv.) in EtOH is added 1-ethylpiperidin-4-one hydrochloride (0.76-1.4 equiv.) and the contents are heated at 80° C. for 16 h. After completion of the reaction, as monitored by LCMS, the reaction mixture is concentrated to dryness and basified with aq. saturated NaHCO₃. The reaction product is extracted with EtOAc and the organic layer is separated, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated to obtain 2-ethyl-8-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole.

Example 5A

To a solution of p-tolylhydrazine hydrochloride (5.0 g, 31.5 mmol) in Ethanol (150 mL) was added 1-ethylpiperidin-4-one hydrochloride (4.0 g, 24.5 mmol) and heated at 80° C. for 16 h. After completion of the reaction (monitored by LCMS). The reaction mixture was concentrated to dryness and basified with aq. saturated NaHCO₃, extracted with EtOAc, the organic layer was separated dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain 4.8 g (Yield 71.0%) of 2-ethyl-8-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm) 7.7 (bs, 1H), 7.2-7.1 (m, 2H), 6.9 (d, 1H), 3.8 (s, 2H), 2.9 (s, 4H), 2.7 (q, 2H), 2.4 (s, 3H), 1.2 (t, 3H).

Example 6 Preparation of 6,8-dichloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 11)

2,4-Dichlorophenyl hydrazine hydrochloride (1 equiv.) is taken in 7% sulfuric acid in 1,4-dioxan. N-Methylpiperidine-4-one (0.76-1.4 equiv.) is added and the contents are stirred at RT for 15 min., followed by heating at 80° C. for 14 h. After completion of the reaction, as monitored by LCMS, the solvent is removed in vacuo, basified with saturated aq. NaHCO₃ and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer is separated, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated. The resulting crude product is purified by column chromatography to afford 6,8-dichloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole.

Example 6A

2,4-Dichlorophenylhydrazine hydrochloride (1.0 g, 4.68 mmol) was dissolved in 7% H₂SO₄ in 1,4-dioxan (50 mL) and N-methylpiperidine-4-one (0.76 g, 5.0 mmol) was added and stirred at RT for 15 min, heated at 80° C. for 14 h. After completion of the reaction (monitored by LCMS), solvent was removed in vacuum, basified with saturated aq. NaHCO₃ and extracted with EtOAc. Organic layer was separated, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum. The resulting product was purified by column chromatography to afford 0.58 g of 6,8-dichloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole.

Example 7 Preparation of 8-chloro-6-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 13)

4-Chloro-2-fluorophenyl hydrazine hydrochloride (1 equiv.) is taken in 7% sulfuric acid in 1,4-dioxan. N-Methylpiperidine-4-one (0.76-1.4 equiv.) is added and the contents are stirred at RT for 10 min. The reaction mixture is then stirred at 100° C. for 6 h. The reaction is monitored by TLC and LCMS. After completion of the reaction, the reaction mixture is concentrated and then slowly quenched with aq. NaHCO₃ solution, followed by extraction with EtOAc. The organic layer is dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and evaporated to dryness. The crude product is purified by column chromatography to afford 8-chloro-6-fluoro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole.

Example 7A

4-Chloro-2-fluoro hydrazine hydrochloride (3 g, 15.3 mmol) was dissolved in 7% H₂SO₄ in 1,4-dioxane (150 mL), N-methylpiperidine-4-one (2.28 g, 15.3 mmol) was added and stirred at RT for 10 min. Reaction mixture was stirred at 100° C. for 6 h. Reaction was monitored by TLC & LCMS. After completion of the reaction, reaction mixture was concentrated under vacuum and slowly quenched with aq. NaHCO₃ solution, extracted with EtOAc. Organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum and purified by column chromatography to afford 1.2 g of 8-chloro-6-fluoro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm) 8.1 (bs, 1H), 7.15 (s, 1H), 6.9-6.8 (d, 1H), 3.65 (s, 2H), 2.95-2.8 (dd, 4H), 2.6 (s, 3H).

Example 8 Preparation of 8-Ethyl-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 15)

Sulfuric acid is added to a solution of 4-ethyl phenyl hydrazine hydrochloride (1 equiv.) in dioxane, and stirred for 5 min. at RT. N-Methyl piperidone (0.76-1.4 equiv.) is added and the mixture is heated at 80° C. for 3 h. After completion, as monitored by TLC, the reaction mixture is concentrated under reduced pressure and basified to pH 10 using 10% aqueous KOH solution, extracted with EtOAc, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure using rotary evaporator to provide the desired compound.

Example 8A

Sulfuric acid (2 mL) was added to a solution of 4-Ethyl phenyl hydrazine hydrochloride (2.0 g, 11 mmol) in dioxane (30 mL), and allowed to stir for 5 min at RT. N-methylpiperidone (1.7 g, 13 mmol) was added and the mixture was heated at 80° C. for 3 h. After completion of reaction (monitored by TLC), reaction mixture was concentrated to ˜20 mL under reduced pressure and basified to pH 10 using 10% aqueous KOH solution. The mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×100 mL), dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure using rotary evaporator to provide the desired compound as a brown colored solid (0.35 g, 82% yield).

Example 9 Preparation of 8-Isopropyl-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 2)

Sulfuric acid is added to a solution of 4-isopropyl phenyl hydrazine hydrochloride (1 equiv.) in dioxane, and stirred for 5 min. at RT. N-Methyl piperidone (0.76-1.4 equiv.) is added and the mixture is heated at 80° C. for 2 h. After completion, as monitored by TLC, the reaction mixture is concentrated under reduced pressure and basified to pH 10 using 10% aqueous KOH solution, extracted with EtOAc, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure using rotary evaporator to provide the desired compound.

Example 9A

Sulfuric acid (14 mL) was added to a solution of 4-Isopropyl phenyl hydrazine hydrochloride (7.0 g, 37 mmol) in dioxane (186 mL) and allowed to stir for 5 min at RT. N-methyl piperidone (4.6 mL, 37 mmol) was added and the mixture was heated at 80° C. for 2 h. After completion of reaction (monitored by TLC), reaction mixture was concentrated to ˜20 mL under reduced pressure and basified to pH 10 using 10% aqueous KOH solution. The mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×200 mL), dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure using rotary evaporator to provide the desired compound as yellow colored solid (7.0 g, 82% yield). ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, free base) δ (ppm) 10.6 (s, 1H), 7.16 (s, 1H), 7.13 (d, 1H), 6.88 (d, 1H), 3.48 (s, 2H), 2.9 (m, 1H), 2.74 (m, 2H), 2.68 (m, 2H), 2.40 (s, 3H), 1.21 (d, 6H).

Example 10 Preparation of 8-chloro-9-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 4)

Sulfuric acid is added to a solution of 4-chloro-3-fluorophenyl hydrazine hydrochloride (1 equiv.) in dioxane, and stirred for 5 min. at RT. N-Methyl piperidone (0.76-1.4 equiv.) is added and the mixture is heated at 80° C. for 3 h. After completion, as monitored by TLC, the reaction mixture is concentrated under reduced pressure and basified to pH 10 using 10% aqueous KOH solution, extracted with EtOAc, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure using rotary evaporator to give a mixture or regioisomeric products. For this Example, silica gel chromatography separates the title compound from the other regioisomer (Compound 6) obtained in Example 11.

Example 10A

Sulfuric acid (1.0 mL) was added to a solution of 4-chloro-3-fluorophenylhydrazine hydrochloride (0.5 g, 2.1 mmol) in dioxane (15 mL), and allowed to stir for 5 min at RT. N-methylpiperidone (0.3 mL, 2.3 mmol) was added and the mixture was heated at 80° C. for 3 h. After completion of reaction (monitored by TLC), reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure and basified to pH 10 using 10% aqueous KOH solution. The mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×100 mL), dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure using rotary evaporator to give the mixture of 6 (major) and 7 (minor) as a brown colored solid (0.17 g, 33% yield).

Example 11 Preparation of 8-Chloro-7-fluoro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 6)

Sulfuric acid is added to a solution of 4-chloro-3-fluorophenyl hydrazine hydrochloride (1 equiv.) in dioxane, and stirred for 5 min. at RT. N-Methyl piperidone (0.76-1.4 equiv.) is added and the mixture is heated at 80° C. for 3 h. After completion, as monitored by TLC, the reaction mixture is concentrated under reduced pressure and basified to pH 10 using 10% aqueous KOH solution, extracted with EtOAc, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure using rotary evaporator to give a mixture or regioisomeric products. For this Example, silica gel chromatography separates the title compound from the other regioisomer (Compound 4) obtained in Example 10.

Example 11A

Sulfuric acid (1.0 mL) was added to a solution of 4-chloro-3-fluoro phenyl hydrazine hydrochloride (0.5 g, 2.1 mmol) in dioxane (15 mL), and allowed to stir for 5 min at RT. N-methylpiperidone (0.3 mL, 2.3 mmol) was added and the mixture was heated at 80° C. for 3 h. After completion of reaction (monitored by TLC), reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure and basified to pH 10 using 10% aqueous KOH solution. The mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×100 mL), dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure using rotary evaporator to give the mixture of 6 (major) and 7 (minor) as a brown colored solid (0.17 g, 33% yield). ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, free base) δ (ppm) 11.1 (s, 1H), 7.48 (d, 1H), 7.27 (d, 1H), 3.5 (s, 2H), 2.76 (m, 2H), 2.70 (m, 2H), 2.41 (s, 3H).

Example 12 Preparation of Methyl 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido(4,3-b)indole-8-carboxylate (Compound 8)

Methyl-4-hydrazinylbenzoate hydrochloride (1 equiv.) and 1-methylpiperidin-4-one HCl (0.76-1.4 equiv.) are taken aqueous HCl and heated at 100° C. overnight (the product was detected by LCMS). The reaction mixture is concentrated and refluxed (90° C.) in methanolic HCl overnight (product was detected by LCMS and TLC). The reaction mixture is concentrated and basified with aqueous NaHCO₃ solution and extracted with EtOAc. The crude product is crystallized in DCM and ether and hexane.

Example 12A

Methyl-4-hydrazinylbenzoate hydrochloride (10 g, 50 mmol) and 1-methylpiperidin-4-one hydrochloride (7.3 g, 50 mmol) were dissolved in aqueous HCl and heated at 100° C. overnight (product was detected by LCMS). The reaction mixture was concentrated under vacuum and refluxed (90° C.) in methanolic HCl overnight (product was detected by LCMS & TLC). The reaction mixture was concentrated under vacuum and basified with aqueous NaHCO₃ solution and extracted with EtOAc, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure to obtain product. The product was crystallized in DCM and ether and hexane. Yield 5.1 g. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, free base) δ (ppm): 8.55 (s, 1H), 8.27 (s, 1H) 7.82-7.79 (d, 1H), 7.24-7.20 (d, 1H), 3.94 (s, 3H), 3.72 (s, 2H), 3.85 (s, 4H) 2.60 (s, 3H).

Example 13 Preparation of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-8-(trifluoromethoxy)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 10)

(4-(Trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)hydrazine hydrochloride (1 equiv.) is taken in 7% sulfuric acid in 1,4-dioxane. 1-Methylpiperidin-4-one hydrochloride (0.76-1.4 equiv.) is added and the mixture is stirred at 80° C. for 6 h. The reaction is monitored by TLC and LCMS. After completion of the reaction, the reaction mixture is concentrated, then slowly quenched with aq. NaHCO₃ solution and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer is dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, evaporated to dryness and purified by column chromatography to afford 2-methyl-8-(trifluoromethoxy)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole.

Example 13A

(4-(Trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)hydrazine hydrochloride (1 g, 4.37 mmol) was dissolved in 7% H₂SO₄ in 1,4-dioxane (50 mL), 1-methylpiperidin-4-one hydrochloride (0.65 g, 4.37 mmol) was added and stirred at 80° C. for 6 h. Reaction was monitored by TLC & LCMS. After completion of the reaction, reaction mixture was concentrated under vacuum and slowly quenched with aq. NaHCO₃ solution, extracted with EtOAc. Organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure and purified by column chromatography to afford 0.9 g of 2-methyl-8-(trifluoromethoxy)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm) 7.9 (bs, 1H), 7.3-7.2 (m, 2H), 7.1-6.9 (d, 1H), 3.7 (s, 2H), 2.9-2.8 (m, 4H), 2.6 (s, 3H).

Example 14 Preparation of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,6-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 12)

O-Tolyl hydrazine hydrochloride (1 equiv.) is taken in EtOH. 1-Methylpiperidin-4-one hydrochloride (0.76-1.4 equiv.) and ethanolic HCl is added (pH acidic) and the contents are stirred at 80° C. for 5 h. The reaction is monitored by TLC. After completion of the reaction, the reaction mixture is concentrated. The residue is dissolved in aq NaHCO₃ solution and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer is dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and evaporated under reduced pressure to afford 2,6-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole.

Example 14A

O-Tolyl hydrazine hydrochloride (3.0 g, 18.9 mmol) was dissolved in of ethanol (10 mL), 1-methylpiperidin-4-one hydrochloride (2.8 g, 18.9 mmol) and ethanolic HCl (10 mL) was added (pH acidic) and stirred at 80° C. for 5 h. Reaction was monitored by TLC. After completion of the reaction, reaction mixture was concentrated under vacuum. Residue was dissolved in aq NaHCO₃ solution, extracted with EtOAc. Organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and evaporated under reduced pressure to afford 2.5 g of 2,6-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm) 7.65 (s, 1H), 7.01 (t, 1H), 6.9 (d, 1H), 3.61 (s, 2H), 2.89-2.80 (m, 4H), 2.58 (s, 3H), 2.41 (s, 3H).

Example 15 Preparation of 8-tert-butyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 14)

(4-tert-Butylphenyl)hydrazine hydrochloride (1 equiv.) is taken in 7% sulfuric acid in 1,4-dioxane. 1-Methylpiperidin-4-one hydrochloride (0.76-1.4 equiv.) is added and the contents are stirred at 80° C. for 3 h. The reaction is monitored by TLC and LCMS. After completion of the reaction, the reaction mixture is concentrated and then quenched with aq. NaHCO₃ solution, followed by extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer is dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, evaporated to dryness and purified by column chromatography (5% MeOH-DCM) to afford 8-tert-butyl-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole.

Example 15A

(4-tert-Butylphenyl)hydrazine hydrochloride (1 g, 4.98 mmol) was dissolved in 7% H₂SO₄ in 1,4-dioxane (50 mL), 1-methylpiperidin-4-1 hydrochloride (0.742 g, 4.98 mmol) was added and stirred at 80° C. for 3 h. Reaction was monitored by TLC & LCMS. After completion of the reaction, reaction mixture was concentrated under vacuum and quenched with aq. NaHCO₃ solution, extracted with EtOAc. Organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum and purified by column chromatography (5% Methanol-DCM) to afford 0.51 g of 8-tert-butoxy-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, free base) δ (ppm) 11.1 (bs, 1H), 10.6 (bs, 1H), 7.4 (s, 1H), 7.3-7.2 (d, 1H), 7.2-7.1 (d, 1H), 4.6-4.5 (m, 1H), 4.3 (bs, 1H), 3.7 (bs, 1H), 3.5 (bs, 1H), 3.2-3.3 (m, 2H), 2.9 (s, 3H), 1.3 (s, 9H).

Example 16 Preparation of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-iodo-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 16)

To a solution of compound 4-iodophenylhydrazine (1 equiv.) in 1,4-dioxane (50 mL) is added conc. sulfuric acid, followed by dropwise addition of 1-methyl-4-piperidone (1 equiv.) at RT. The reaction mixture is heated at 70° C. for 90 min., evaporated, diluted with water and the pH is adjusted to 12 with 40 mL of 15% aq. KOH solution. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc, followed by brine wash, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is column purified over 230-400 silica gel using a gradient of 0-5% of MeOH in EtOAc. Note 1: The reaction temperature should be 70° C. Higher temperature results in the de-iodo carboline.

Example 16A

To a suspension of 4-iodophenylhydrazine hydrochloride (2.0 g, 0.0074 mol) in dioxane (30 mL) at RT was added conc. H₂SO₄ (0.7 mL, 0.0171 mol) dropwise and the reaction mixture was stirred for 5 min. To this was added N-methyl-4-piperidone (0.838 g, 0.0074 mol) and the reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 10 min and heated at 70° C. for 90 min. Reaction monitored by TLC. The solvent was evaporated and pH adjusted to 9-10 by 10% KOH Solution. The product was extracted with (3×50 mL) EtOAc. Combined organic layer washed with water and brine and dried over sodium sulfate, concentrated under vacuum and product purified by column chromatography (100-200 mesh silica) in solvent system (0-10%, DCM/MeOH). Obtained 1.8 g of brown solid. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm) 7.70 (s, 1H), 7.38 (d, 1H), 7.05 (d, 1H), 3.60 (s, 2H), 2.90 (m, 4H), 2.58 (s, 3H).

Example 17 Preparation of 8-chloro-2-cyclopropyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 17)

Sulfuric acid is added to a solution of 4-Chloro phenyl hydrazine hydrochloride (1 equiv.) in dioxane and stirred for 5 min. at RT. N-cyclopropyl piperidone (1 equiv.) is added and the mixture is heated at 80° C. for 2 h. After completion, as monitored by TLC, the reaction mixture is concentrated under reduced pressure and basified to pH 10 using 10% aqueous KOH solution. The reaction product is extracted with EtOAc, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure using rotary evaporator to provide the desired compound.

Example 17A

Sulfuric acid (3.5 mL) was added to a solution of 4-chlorophenylhydrazine hydrochloride (1 eq.) in dioxane (50 mL), and allowed to stir for 5 min at RT. N-cyclopropylpiperidone (1 eq.) was added and the mixture was heated at 80° C. for 2 h. After completion of reaction (monitored by TLC), reaction mixture was concentrated to ˜20 mL under reduced pressure and basified to pH 10 using 10% aqueous KOH solution. The mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×200 mL), dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure using rotary evaporator to provide the desired compound as a brown colored solid (1.3 g, 53% yield).

Example 18 Preparation of 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 18)

Sulfuric acid is added to a solution of 4-fluorophenyl hydrazine hydrochloride (1 equiv.) in dioxane and stirred for 5 min. at RT. N-Methyl piperidone (0.76-1.4 equiv.) is added and the mixture is heated at 80° C. for 2 h. After completion, as monitored by TLC, the reaction mixture is concentrated under reduced pressure and basified to pH 10 using 10% aqueous KOH solution. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure using rotary evaporator to provide the desired compound.

Example 18A

Sulfuric acid (3.5 mL) was added to a solution of 4-fluorophenylhydrazine hydrochloride (2.0 g, 12.3 mmol) in dioxane (50 mL), and allowed to stir for 5 min at RT. N-methylpiperidone (1.38 g, 12 mmol) was added and the mixture was heated at 80° C. for 2 h. After completion (TLC), reaction mixture was concentrated to ˜20 mL under reduced pressure and basified to pH 10 using 10% aqueous KOH solution. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×200 mL), dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure using rotary evaporator to provide the desired compound as a brown colored solid (1.3 g, 53% yield). ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm) 7.90 (bs, 1H), 7.18 (m, 1H), 7.05 (d, 1H), 6.82 (t, 1H), 3.60 (s, 2H), 2.90 (m, 2H), 2.82 (m, 2H), 2.38 (s, 3H).

Example 19 Preparation of 2-methyl-5-(oxiran-2-yl)pyridine (Compound 19)

DMSO is added to NaH 60% dispersion in oil (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF is added to the mixture at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added and the contents are stirred for 10 min. A solution of 6-methylnicotinaldehyde (1 equiv.) in THF is added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 2 h, and monitored by LCMS. The reaction mixture is poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get crude product 2-methyl-5-(oxiran-2-yl)pyridine.

Example 19A

DMSO (4 mL) was added to NaH 60% dispersion in oil (0.314 g, 7.8 mmol, 1.3 eq.) and heated it to 65° C. for 1 h. THF (10 mL) was added at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min, reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1.2 g, 5.9 mmol, 1 eq.) was added and stirred for 10 min and solution of 6-methylnicotinaldehyde (0.720 g, 5.9 mmol, 1 eqv) in THF was added dropwise. After complete of addition, reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. Product was detected by LCMS. Reaction mixture was poured in ice water. Product was extracted in diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum at 25° C. to get product 2-methyl-5-(oxiran-2-yl)pyridine (1.1 g).

Example 20 Preparation of 2-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-methyloxirane (Compound 21)

To a solution of trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) in DMSO is added sodium hydride 50%-55% dispersion in oil (1-1.8 equiv.) portionwise over 5 min. and stirred for 1 h at RT. A solution of 1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethanone (1 equiv.) in DMSO is added to the reaction mixture dropwise over 20 min. and stirred at RT for 4 h. The reaction is monitored by TLC and at completion the reaction mixture is poured in water (100 mL) and extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic extract is washed with water, followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated to dryness.

Example 20A

To a solution of trimethylsulfonium iodide (3.5 g, 17.15 mmol, 1.2 eq.) in DMSO (30 mL) was added sodium hydride 50%-55% dispersion in oil (0.97 g, 22.2 mmol, 1.5 eq.) portionwise over 5 min. and stirred for an hour at RT. A solution of 1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethanone (2 g, 14.47 mmol, 1 eq.) in DMSO (10 mL) was added to the reaction mixture dropwise over 20 min. It was stirred at RT for 4 h. TLC was checked and the reaction mixture was poured in 100 mL water and extracted with EtOAc (3×100 mL). The combined organic extract was washed with water (2×150 mL), followed by brine. It was dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum. Yield: 2.2 g brown oil. ¹H NMR (Acetone-d₆, free base) δ (ppm) 7.43-7.39 (dd, 2H), 7.11 (t, 2H), 2.95 and 2.72 (dd, 2H), 1.65 (s, 3H).

Example 21 Preparation of 2-p-tolyloxirane (Compound 23)

To a solution of Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) in DMSO is added sodium hydride 60% dispersion in oil (1-1.8 equiv.) portionwise over 5 min. and stirred for 1 h at RT. A solution of 4-methylbenzaldehyde (1 equiv.) in DMSO is added to the reaction mixture dropwise over 20 min. and stirred at RT for 4 h. The reaction is monitored by TLC and the reaction mixture poured in water and extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic extract is washed with water, followed by brine, and dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and evaporated to dryness to afford 2-p-tolyloxirane as crude product.

Example 21A

To a solution of trimethylsulfonium iodide (10.28 g, 50.37 mmol, 1.2 eq.) in DMSO (70 mL) was added sodium hydride 60% dispersion in oil (2.82 g, 70.5 mmol, 1.7 eq.) portionwise over 5 min. and stirred for an hour at RT. A solution of 4-methylbenzaldehyde (5.0 g, 42.0 mmol, 1 eq.) in DMSO (25 mL) was added to the reaction mixture dropwise over 20 min. It was stirred at RT for 4 h. TLC was checked and the reaction mixture was poured in 150 mL water and extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic extract was washed with water and brine. It was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to afford 5.2 g of 2-p-tolyloxirane as product. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm) 7.2-7.1 (m, 4H), 3.81-3.8 (t, 1H), 3.2-3.1 (m, 1H), 2.6-2.5 (m, 1H), 2.4 (s, 3H).

Example 22 Preparation of 3-(oxiran-2-yl)pyridine (Compound 25)

Sodium hydride 50% dispersion in oil (1-1.8 equiv.) is taken in DMSO and heated at 65° C. for 1 h. THF is added to at the mixture at the same temperature and heated for 10 min. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added, followed by nicotinaldehyde (1 equiv.) and the contents are stirred at RT for 1 h. The reaction is monitored by TLC and LCMS. After completion of the reaction, the reaction mixture is poured in ice and extracted with diethyl ether, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and evaporated under reduced pressure to afford crude product (3-(oxiran-2-yl)pyridine).

Example 22A

Sodium hydride 50% dispersion in oil (1.64 g, 34.2 mmol, 1.8 eq.) was dissolved in DMSO (12 mL) and heated at 65° C. for 1 h. THF (36 mL) was added at the same temperature and heated for 10 min. Reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. and trimethylsulfonium iodide (3.81 g, 18.6 mmol, 1 eq.) was added, followed by nicotinaldehyde (2 g, 18.6 mmol, 1 eq.) and stirred at RT for 1 h. Reaction was monitored by TLC and LCMS. After completion of the reaction, reaction mixture was poured in ice and extracted with diethyl ether, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and evaporated under reduced pressure to afford 1 g of product (3-(oxiran-2-yl)pyridine). ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm) 8.6-8.5 (m, 2H), 7.5 (d, 1H), 7.3 (m, 1H), 3.9 (t, 1H), 3.2 (t, 1H), 2.9 (t, 1H).

Example 23 Preparation of 2-(2,4,6-trifluorophenyl)-2-methyloxirane (Compound 27)

DMSO is added to NaH (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF is added at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added and the contents were stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of 1-(2,4,6-trifluorophenyl)ethanone (1 equiv.) in THF is added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 2 h; the reaction is monitored for completion. After completion, the reaction mixture is poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the crude product.

Example 23A

DMSO was added to NaH (1 equiv) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF was added at same temp. and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min, reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1 equiv) was added and stirred for 10 min after which the solution of 1-(2,4,6-trifluorophenyl)ethanone (1 equiv) in THF was added dropwise. After complete addition, reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. Product was detected by LCMS. Reaction mixture was poured in ice water. Product was extracted with diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum at 25° C. to get the product.

Example 24 Preparation of 2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-2-methyloxirane (Compound 29)

DMSO is added to NaH (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for one h. THF is added at same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added and the contents are stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of 1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)ethanone (1 equiv.) in THF is added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 2 h; the reaction is monitored by LCMS. After completion, the reaction mixture is poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the crude product.

Example 24A

DMSO was added to NaH (1 equiv) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF was added at same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min, reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1 equiv) was added and stirred for 10 min after which the solution of 1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)ethanone (1 equiv) in THF was added dropwise. After complete addition, reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. Product was detected by LCMS. Reaction mixture was poured in ice water. Product was extracted with diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum at 25° C. to get the product. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.40 (d, 1H), 7.23 (m, 2H), 3.01 (d, 1H), 2.79 (d, 1H), 1.62 (s, 3H).

Example 25 Preparation of 2-(2,4-difluorophenyl)-2-methyloxirane (Compound 31)

DMSO is added to NaH (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF is added at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added and the contents are stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of 1-(2,4-difluorophenyl)ethanone (1 equiv.) in THF is added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 2 h; the reaction is monitored by LCMS. After completion, the reaction mixture is poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the crude product.

Example 25A

DMSO was added to NaH (1 equiv) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF was added at same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min, reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1 equiv) was added and stirred for 10 min after which the solution of 1-(2,4-difluorophenyl)ethanone (1 equiv) in THF was added dropwise. After complete addition, reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. Product was detected by LCMS. Reaction mixture was poured in ice water. Product was extracted with diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum at 25° C. to get the product. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.41 (m, 1H), 6.81 (m, 2H), 2.98 (d, 1H), 2.79 (d, 1H), 1.59 (s, 3H).

Example 26 Preparation of 2-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-2-methyloxirane (Compound 33)

DMSO is added to NaH (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF is added at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added and the contents are stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of 1-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)ethanone (1 equiv.) in THF is added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 2 h; the reaction is monitored by LCMS. After completion, the reaction mixture is poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the crude product.

Example 26A

DMSO was added to NaH (1 equiv) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF was added at same temp. and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min, reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1 equiv) was added and stirred for 10 min after which the solution of 1-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)ethanone (1 equiv) in THF was added dropwise. After complete addition, reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. Product was detected by LCMS. Reaction mixture was poured in ice water. Product was extracted with diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum at 25° C. to get the product. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.42 (d, 1H), 7.39 (m, 1H), 7.18 (m, 1H), 2.98 (d, 1H), 2.76 (d, 1H), 1.65 (s, 3H).

Example 27 Preparation of 2-(3,4-difluorophenyl)-2-methyloxirane (Compound 35)

DMSO is added to NaH (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF is added at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added and the contents are stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of 1-(3,4-difluorophenyl)ethanone (1 equiv.) in THF is added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 2 h; the reaction is monitored by LCMS. The reaction mixture is poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the crude product.

Example 27A

DMSO was added to NaH (1 equiv) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF was added at same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min, reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1 equiv) was added and stirred for 10 min after which the solution of 1-(3,4-difluorophenyl)ethanone (1 equiv) in THF was added dropwise. After complete addition, reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. Product was detected by LCMS. Reaction mixture was poured in ice water. Product was extracted with diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum at 25° C. to get the product. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.17 (m, 3H), 2.99 (d, 1H), 2.79 (d, 1H), 1.71 (s, 3H).

Example 28 Preparation of 2-(3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl)-2-methyloxirane (Compound 37)

DMSO is added to NaH (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF is added at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added and the contents were stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of 1-(3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl)ethanone (1 equiv.) in THF is added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 2 h; the reaction is monitored by LCMS. After completion, the reaction mixture is poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the crude product.

Example 28A

DMSO was added to NaH (1 equiv) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF was added at same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min, reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1 equiv) was added and stirred for 10 min after which the solution of 1-(3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl)ethanone (1 equiv) in THF was added dropwise. After complete addition, reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. Product was detected by LCMS. Reaction mixture was poured in ice water. Product was extracted with diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum at 25° C. to get the product.

Example 29 Preparation of 2-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)-2-methyloxirane (Compound 39)

DMSO is added to NaH (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF is added at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added and the contents are stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of 1-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)ethanone (1 equiv.) in THF is added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 2 h; the reaction is monitored by LCMS. After completion, the reaction mixture is poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the crude product.

Example 29A

DMSO was added to NaH (1 equiv) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF was added at same temp. and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min, reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1 equiv) was added and stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of 1-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)ethanone (1 equiv) in THF was added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. Product was detected by LCMS. Reaction mixture was poured in ice water. Product was extracted with diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum at 25° C. to get the product. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.12 (m, 2H), 6.87 (m, 1H), 3.84 (s, 3H), 2.91 (d, 1H), 2.78 (d, 1H), 1.68 (s, 3H).

Example 30 Preparation of 2-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)oxirane (Compound 41)

DMSO is added to NaH (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF is added at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added and the contents stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of 3-fluoro-4-methoxybenzaldehyde (1 equiv.) in THF is added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 2 h; the reaction is monitored by LCMS. The reaction mixture is poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the crude product.

Example 30A

DMSO was added to NaH (1 equiv) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF was added at same temp. and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min, reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1 equiv) was added and stirred for 10 min after which the solution of 3-fluoro-4-methoxybenzaldehyde (1 equiv) in THF was added dropwise. After complete addition, reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. Product was detected by LCMS. Reaction mixture was poured in ice water. Product was extracted with diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum at 25° C. to get the product.

Example 31 Preparation of 2-(4-chloro-3-fluorophenyl)-2-methyloxirane Compound 20)

DMSO is added to NaH (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF is added at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added and the contents stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of 1-(4-chloro-3-fluorophenyl)ethanone (1 equiv.) in THF is added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 2 h; the reaction is monitored by LCMS. The reaction mixture is poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the crude product.

Example 31A

DMSO was added to NaH (1 equiv) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF was added at same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min, reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1 equiv) was added and stirred for 10 min after which the solution of 1-(4-chloro-3-fluorophenyl)ethanone (1 equiv) in THF was added dropwise. After complete addition, reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. Product was detected by LCMS. Reaction mixture was poured in ice water. Product was extracted with diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum at 25° C. to get the product.

Example 32 Preparation of 2-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-methyloxirane (Compound 22)

DMSO was added to NaH (1 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF was added at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1 equiv.) was added and the contents were stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of 1-(4-chlorophenyl)ethanone (1 equiv.) in THF was added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h; the reaction was monitored by LCMS. After completion, the reaction mixture was poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the crude product. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.38 (m, 4H), 2.97 (d, 1H), 2.78 (d, 1H), 1.69 (s, 3H).

Example 33 Preparation of 2-(4-fluorophenyl)-2,3-dimethyloxirane (Compound 24)

DMSO is added to NaH (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF is added at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added and the contents stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of 1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethanone (1 equiv.) in THF is added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 2 h; the reaction is monitored by LCMS. After completion, the reaction mixture was poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the crude product.

Example 33A

DMSO was added to NaH (1 equiv) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF was added at same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min, reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Triethylsulfonium iodide (1 equiv) was added and stirred for 10 min after which the solution of 1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethanone (1 equiv) in THF was added dropwise. After complete addition, reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. Product was detected by LCMS. Reaction mixture was poured in ice water. Product was extracted with diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the product.

Example 34 Preparation of 2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-2-methyloxirane (Compound 26)

DMSO is added to NaH (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF is added at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added and the contents are stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of 1-(4-methoxyphenyl)ethanone (1 equiv.) in THF is added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 2 h; the reaction is monitored by LCMS. After completion, the reaction mixture is poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the crude product.

Example 33A

DMSO was added to NaH (1 equiv) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF was added at same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min, reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1 equiv) was added and stirred for 10 min after which the solution of 1-(4-methoxyphenyl)ethanone (1 equiv) in THF was added drop wise. After complete addition, reaction mixture was stirred at room temperature for 2 h. Product was detected by LCMS. Reaction mixture was poured in ice water. Product was extracted in diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the product. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.24 (d, 2H), 6.83 (d, 2H), 3.8 (s, 3H), 2.98 (d, 1H), 2.78 (d, 1H), 1.71 (s, 3H).

Example 35 Preparation of 2-(trifluoromethyl)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)oxirane (Compound 28)

DMSO is added to NaH (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF is added at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added and the contents stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of 2,2,2-trifluoro-1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethanone (1 equiv.) in THF is added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 2 h; the reaction is monitored by LCMS. The reaction mixture is poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the crude product.

Example 35A

DMSO was added to NaH (1 equiv) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF was added at same temp. and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min, reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1 equiv) was added and stirred for 10 min after which the solution of 2,2,2-trifluoro-1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethanone (1 equiv) in THF was added dropwise. After complete addition, reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. Product was detected by LCMS. Reaction mixture was poured in ice water. Product was extracted in diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum at 25° C. to get the product.

Example 36 Preparation of 2-(trifluoromethyl)-5-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (Compound 30)

DMSO is added to NaH (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF is added at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added and the contents stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of 5-acetyl-2-(trifluoromethyl) pyridine (1 equiv.) in THF is added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 2 h; the reaction is monitored by LCMS. After completion, the reaction mixture is poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the crude product.

Example 36A

DMSO was added to NaH (1 equiv) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF was added at same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min, reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1 equiv) was added and stirred for 10 min after which the solution of 1-(6-(trifluoromethyl)pyridin-3-yl)ethanone (1 equiv) in THF was added dropwise. After complete addition, reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. Product was detected by LCMS. Reaction mixture was poured in ice water. Product was extracted with diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum at 25° C. to get the product.

Example 37 Preparation of 2-(trifluoromethyl)-5-(oxiran-2-yl)pyridine (Compound 32)

DMSO is added to NaH (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF is added at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added and the contents stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of 6-(trifluoromethyl)pyridine-3-carbaldehyde (1 equiv.) in THF is added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 2 h; the reaction is monitored by LCMS. After completion, the reaction mixture is poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the crude product.

Example 37A

DMSO was added to NaH (1 equiv) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF was added at same temp. and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min, reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1 equiv) was added and stirred for 10 min after which the solution of 6-(trifluoromethyl)pyridine-3-carbaldehyde (1 equiv) in THF was added dropwise. After complete addition, reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. Product was detected by LCMS. Reaction mixture was poured in ice water. Product was extracted with diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum at 25° C. to get the product.

Example 38 Preparation of 2-cyclopropyl-2-(4-fluorophenyl)oxirane (Compound 34)

DMSO is added to NaH (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF is added at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added and the contents are stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of cyclopropyl(4-fluorophenyl)methanone (1 equiv.) in THF is added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 2 h; the reaction is monitored by LCMS. After completion, the reaction mixture is poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the crude product.

Example 38A

DMSO was added to NaH (1 equiv) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF was added at same temp. and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min, reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1 equiv) was added and stirred for 10 min after which the solution of cyclopropyl(4-fluorophenyl)methanone (1 equiv) in THF was added dropwise. After complete addition, reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. Product was detected by LCMS. Reaction mixture was poured in ice water. Product was extracted with diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum at 25° C. to get the product. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.05 (m, 4H), 2.9 (d, 1H), 2.7 (d, 1H), 0.87 (m, 1H), 0.61 (m, 2H), 0.45 (m, 2H).

Example 39 Preparation of 2-ethyl-2-(4-fluorophenyl)oxirane (Compound 36)

DMSO is added to NaH (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF is added at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added and the contents stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of 1-(4-fluorophenyl)propan-1-one (1 equiv.) in THF is added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 2 h; the reaction is monitored by LCMS. After completion, the reaction mixture is poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the crude product.

Example 39A

DMSO was added to NaH (1 equiv) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF was added at same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min, reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1 equiv) was added and stirred for 10 min after which the solution of 1-(4-fluorophenyl)propan-1-one (1 equiv) in THF was added dropwise. After complete addition, reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. Product was detected by LCMS. Reaction mixture was poured in ice water. Product was extracted in diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the product.

Example 40 Preparation of 2-methyl-2-phenyloxirane (Compound 38)

DMSO is added to NaH (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF is added at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added and the contents are stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of acetophenone (1 equiv.) in THF is added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 2 h; the reaction is monitored by LCMS. The reaction mixture is poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the crude product.

Example 40A

DMSO was added to NaH (1 equiv) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF was added at same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min, reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1 equiv) was added and stirred for 10 min after which the solution of acetophenone (1 equiv) in THF was added dropwise. After complete addition, reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. Product was detected by LCMS. Reaction mixture was poured in ice water. Product was extracted with diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum at 25° C. to get the product. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.35 (m, 5H), 2.95 (d, 1H), 2.8 (d, 1H), 1.75 (s, 3H).

Example 41 Preparation of 2-methyl-5-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (Compound 40)

DMSO is added to NaH (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF is added at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added and the contents stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of 1-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)ethanone (1 equiv.) in THF is added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 2 h; the reaction is monitored by LCMS. After completion, the reaction mixture is poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the crude product.

Example 41A

DMSO was added to NaH (1 equiv) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF was added at same temp. and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min, reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1 equiv) was added and stirred for 10 min after which the solution of 1-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)ethanone (1 equiv) in THF was added dropwise. After complete addition, reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. Product was detected by LCMS. Reaction mixture was poured in ice water. Product was extracted with diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum at 25° C. to get the product.

Example 42 Preparation of 2-methyl-5-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)pyrimidine (Compound 42)

DMSO is added to NaH (1-1.8 equiv.) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF is added at the same temperature and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min., the reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1-1.2 equiv.) is added and the contents stirred for 10 min. after which the solution of 1-(2-methylpyrimidin-5-yl)ethanone (1 equiv.) in THF is added dropwise. After complete addition, the reaction mixture is stirred at RT for 2 h; the reaction is monitored by LCMS. The reaction mixture is poured in ice water, extracted in diethyl ether, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated at 25° C. to get the crude product.

Example 42A

DMSO was added to NaH (1 equiv) and heated to 65° C. for 1 h. THF was added at same temp. and heated for another 10 min. After 10 min, reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Trimethylsulfonium iodide (1 equiv) was added and stirred for 10 min after which the solution of 1-(2-methylpyrimidin-5-yl)ethanone (1 equiv) in THF was added dropwise. After complete addition, reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. Product was detected by LCMS. Reaction mixture was poured in ice water. Product was extracted with diethyl ether (4×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum at 25° C. to get the product.

Example 43 Preparation of racemic-2-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-p-tolylethanol (Compound 43)

3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (2.2 g, 11 mmol, 1 equiv.), 4-methylstyrene oxide (5.8 g, 44 mmol, 4 equiv.) and NaH (1.3 g, 32.5 mmol, 2.95 eq) were heated in DMF (70 mL) at 120° C. for 16 h (overnight). The contents were quenched by MeOH and evaporated to dryness. The resulting crude product was purified by silica gel chromatography (230-400 mesh) using EtOAc-hexane gradient to obtain 1.3 g of racemic-2-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-p-tolylethanol. The free base was converted into its hydrochloride salt by treatment of ethanolic HCl. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 10.30 (s, 1H), 7.42-7.0 (m, 7H), 5.6 (m, 1H), 4.90-4.80 (m, 1H), 4.60-4.55 (d, 1H), 4.30-4.00 (m, 3H), 3.70 (s, 1H), 3.4 (m, 1H), 3.22-3.10 (d, 1H), 3.00-2.90 (m, 3H), 2.80-2.60 (d, 1H), 2.40 (s, 3H), 2.30 (s, 3H).

Example 44 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)propan-2-ol (Compound 45)

To a solution of carboline (290 mg, 1.314 mmol, 1.0 equiv.) in DMF (6 mL) was added 38 mg of sodium hydride 55-60% dispersion in oil, in one portion, and heated to 120° C. for 1 h under stirring. The reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. and epoxide (400 mg, 2.628 mmol, 2 equiv.) was added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature was raised to 120° C. again and stirred at the same temperature for 2 h. The reaction mixture was brought to RT and partitioned between 60 mL of EtOAc and 15 mL of water. The organic layer was separated and the aqueous layer extracted with EtOAc (1×50 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with water and then with brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to yield crude product (600 mg). The crude product was purified by column chromatography (flash) over 230-400 silica gel (deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc. ¹H NMR and LCMS were found to be consistent. Yield: 150 mg free base. The pure compound was converted to its oxalate salt with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid in THF. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.4 (m, 3H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 6.98 (m, 3H), 4.45 (bs, 2H), 4.3 (d, 1H), 4.19 (d, 1H), 3.6-(bs, 2H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 3.1-2.9 (m, 2H), 1.60 (s, 3H).

Example 45 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound 47)

Sodium hydride (38 mg, 1.6 mmol, 1.2 equiv.) was added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (290 mg, 1.31 mmol, 1.0 equiv.) in DMF (6 mL), a heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. and 2-methyl-5-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (400 mg, 2.68 mmol, 2.0 equiv.) was added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature was raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc (60 mL) and water (15 mL). The organic layer was separated and the aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc (1×20 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product was purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound was converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample was prepared by dissolving free base in 10 mL THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.50 (s, 1H), 7.70 (d, 1H), 7.47 (s, 1H), 7.42 (d, 1H), 7.15 (d, 1H), 7.03 (d, 1H), 4.40 (m, 2H), 4.30 (m, 1H), 4.10 (m, 1H), 3.50 (m, 1H), 3.10 (m, 3H), 2.90 (s, 3H), 2.45 (s, 3H), 1.60 (m, 3H).

Example 46 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyrimidin-5-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound 49)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) is added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF (6 mL), and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and 5-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)pyrimidine (2-7.5 equiv.) is added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature is raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc (60 mL) and water (15 mL). The organic layer is separated and the aqueous layer is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product is purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound is converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample is prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate.

Example 46A

Sodium hydride (38 mg, 1.6 mmol, 1.2 equiv.) was added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (290 mg, 1.31 mmol, 1.0 equiv.) in DMF (6 ml), a heated to 120 deg C. for 1 hour with stirring. The reaction mixture was cooled to 0 deg C. and 5-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)pyrimidine (400 mg, 2.9 mmol, 2.2 equiv) was added dropwise over 5 minutes. The temperature was raised to 120 deg C. and stirred for 2 hours. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc (60 ml) and water (15 ml). The organic layer was separated and the aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc (1×20 ml). The combined organic layer was washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product was purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, pretreated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the product.

Example 47 Preparation of racemic-2-(2-ethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-8-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-p-tolylethanol (Compound 51)

2-Ethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (214 mg, 1 mmol), 4-methylstyrene oxide (1 mL, 7.5 mmol) and NaH (120 mg, 3 mmol) were heated in DMF (4 mL) at 120° C. for 16 h (overnight) to obtain 50 mg of racemic-2-(2-ethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-8-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-p-tolylethanol as a TFA salt after purification by reverse-phase chromatography (C-18, 500 mm×50 mm, Mobile Phase A=0.05% TFA in water, B=0.05% TFA in acetonitrile, Gradient: 10% B to 80% B in 30 min., injection vol. 5 mL). ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 13.20 (bs, 1H), 7.4-7.0 (m, 7H), 5.05-4.97 (m, 1H), 4.70 (t, 1H), 4.25-4.10 (m, 3H), 3.70-3.60 (m, 1H), 3.40-3.10 (m, 5H), 2.5 (s, 3H), 2.38 (s, 3H), 1.41 (t, 3H).

Example 48 Preparation of racemic-2-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-p-tolylethanol (Compound 53)

2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (400 mg, 2.1 mmol), 4-methylstyrene oxide (2.1 g, 15.7 mmol) and NaH (252 mg, 6.3 mmol) were heated in DMF (5 mL) at 120° C. for 16 h to obtain 75 mg of racemic-2-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-p-tolylethanol as a TFA salt after purification by reverse-phase chromatography (C-18, 500 mm×50 mm, Mobile Phase A=0.05% TFA in water, B=0.05% TFA in acetonitrile, Gradient: 10% B to 80% B in 30 min., inject ion vol. 5 mL). ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 13.45-13.20 (bs, 1H), 7.40-7.05 (m, 8H), 5.0-4.9 (t, 1H), 4.8-4.6 (t, 1H), 4.25-4.05 (m, 3H), 3.70-3.60 (m, 1H), 3.40-3.30 (m, 2H), 3.05 (m, 1H), 3.00-2.91 (m, 3H), 2.3 (s, 3H).

Example 49 Preparation of racemic-2-(2-ethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-p-tolylethanol (Compound 44)

2-Ethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (400 mg, 2.0 mmol), 4-methylstyrene oxide (2.01 g, 15 mmol) and NaH (240 mg, 6 mmol) were heated in DMF (6 mL) at 120° C. for 16 h to obtain 120 mg of racemic-2-(2-ethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-p-tolyethanol as a TFA salt after purification by reverse-phase chromatography (C-18, 500 mm×50 mm, Mobile Phase A=0.05% TFA in water, B=0.05% TFA in acetonitrile, Gradient: 10% B to 80% B in 30 min., injection vol. 5 mL). ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 13.40-13.10 (bs, 1H), 7.40-7.30 (t, 2H), 7.29-7.10 (m, 6H), 5.07-4.95 (m, 1H), 4.75-4.60 (t, 1H), 4.25-4.02 (m, 3H), 3.75-3.65 (m, 1H), 3.40-3.0 (m, 5H), 2.35 (S, 3H), 1.47-1.40 (t, 3H).

Example 50 Preparation of 1-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-phenylpropan-2-ol (Compound 46)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) is added to a solution of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF, and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and 2-methyl-2-phenyloxirane (2-7.5 equiv.) is added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature is raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer is separated and the aqueous layer is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product is purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound is converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample is prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate.

Example 51 Preparation of 2-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-1-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)ethanol (Compound 48)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.35 g, 6.65 mmol) was taken in DMF (10 mL). NaH (0.9 g, 19.5 mmol) was added portionwise at RT and the contents were stirred for 15 min. 2-Methyl-5-(oxiran-2-yl)pyridine (0.9 g, 6.65 mmol) was added to the reaction mixture dropwise at RT. After complete addition, the reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h, the reaction was monitored by LCMS. The reaction mixture was quenched with MeOH and concentrated to dryness. Water (20 mL) was added and the reaction mixture was extracted in EtOAc (2×100 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated to provide a dark brown crude oil. This product was purified by HPLC to obtain pure 2-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-1-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)ethanol as the TFA salt (310 mg). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.5 (s, 1H), 8.4 (s, 1H), 7.8 (d, 1H), 7.2 (s, 1H), 7.0 (s, 1H), 6.9 (d, 1H), 5.2 (bs, 1H), 4.7 (d, 1H), 4.4 (m, 3H), 3.9 (bs, 1H), 3.5 (m, 1H), 3.3 (s, 2H), 3.1 (s, 3H), 2.7 (s, 3H),

Example 52 Preparation of 2-(8-chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-1-(6-(trifluoromethyl)pyridin-3-yl)ethanol (Compound 50)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) is added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF, and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and 5-acetyl-2-(trifluoromethyl)pyridine (2-7.5 equiv.) is added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature is raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer is separated and the aqueous layer extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product is purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound is converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample is prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate.

Example 53 Preparation of 1-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound 52)

A mixture of compound 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.5 g, 7.5 mmol, 1 equiv.) and NaH (252 mg, 10.5 mmol, 1.4 equiv.) in DMF (30 mL) were heated to 120° C. for 1 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and 2-methyl-5-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (2.46 g, 16.5 mmol, 2.2 equiv.) in DMF (17 mL) was added dropwise over 12 min. The temperature was again raised to 120° C. and stirred for 3 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and water (5 mL) was added, diluted with EtOAc (700 mL) and the organic layer was washed with water (3×100 mL) and then with brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum. The compound was purified by column chromatography over 230-400 silica gel using a gradient of 10-20% MeOH in EtOAc. Yield: 2.3 g (87%). ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.52 (bs, 1H), 7.73-7.71 (d, 1H), 7.31-7.29 (d, 1H), 7.17-7.15 (m, 2H), 6.88-6.86 (d, 1H), 4.34 (bs, 2H), 4.24-4.40 (dd, 2H), 3.47 (bs, 2H), 2.98 (bs, 2H), 2.91 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.35 (s, 3H), 1.48 (s, 3H).

Example 54 Preparation of 2-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-(pyridin-3-yl)ethanol (Compound 54)

Carboline (500 mg, 2.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL). To this solution was added NaH (60%, 180 mg, 4.5 mmol) at RT and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10-15 min. after which 3-(oxiran-2-yl)pyridine (450 mg, 3.7 mmol) was added. The reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 4 h and the reaction was monitored by LCMS. After completion, the reaction mixture was poured on ice water and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer was dried on sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified by HPLC to obtain 420 mg of product as a white solid (TFA salt). TLC (silica gel) 5:95 MeOH:DCM, Rf 0.1 was observed. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.60 (d, 2H), 8.20 (bs, 1H), 7.85 (bs, 1H), 7.20 (s, 1H), 7.0 (d, 1H), 6.9 (d, 1H), 5.2 (bs, 1H), 4.8 (d, 2H), 4.4 (m, 4H), 3.9 (bs, 1H), 3.60-(bs, 2H), 3.10-(s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H).

Example 55 Preparation of 2-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-(pyridin-3-yl)ethanol (Compound 56)

Chloro carboline (500 mg, 2.27 mmol) was taken in DMF. NaH (180 mg, 4.5 mmol) was added at RT and stirred for 10-15 min. Neat epoxide (450 mg, 3.7 mmol) was added dropwise at RT. The reaction was stirred at RT for 4 h and the reaction was monitored by LCMS. After completion, the reaction mixture was poured on ice water and extracted with EtOAc, dried and concentrated. The residue was purified by HPLC. 465 mg of product as a white solid (TFA salt). TLC: 5% MeOH-DCM, Rf 0.1 was observed. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.80 (s, 2H), 8.40 (s, 1H), 7.9 (t, 1H), 7.40 (s, 1H), 7.20 (d, 1H), 7.0 (d, 1H), 5.25 (bs, 1H), 4.7 (d, 1H), 4.4 (m, 2H), 4.3 (d, 1H), 3.9 (bs, 1H), 3.5 (bs, 1H), 3.3 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H).

Example 56 Preparation of 2-(4-fluorophenyl)-1-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound 55)

A mixture of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (2.6 g, 13.1 mmol, 1 equiv.) and NaH (55%, 750 mg, 17.2 mmol, 1.3 equiv.) in 60 mL of THF was heated to 120° C. for 1 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and compound 2-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-methyloxirane (4 g, 26 mmol, 2 equiv.) in DMF (25 mL) was added dropwise for 5 min. at RT followed by heating at 120° C. for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and water (10 mL) was added followed by dilution with EtOAc (800 mL), which was washed with water (3×150 mL) and then brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum. The product was purified using column chromatography over 230-400 Silica gel (flash) using 15% MeOH in EtOAc as eluent. Yield: 3 g (66%). ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.5 (m, 2H), 7.3 (d, 1H), 7.12 (m, 3H), 6.8 (d, 1H), 4.3 (bs, 1H), 4.2 (m, 2H), 4.0 (m, 3H), 3.4 (bs, 1H), 3.0 (m, 1H), 2.9 (s, 3H), 2.3 (s, 3H), 1.5 (m, 3H).

Example 57 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)propan-2-ol (Compound 57)

Sodium hydride (38 mg, 1.6 mmol, 1.2 equiv.) was added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (290 mg, 1.31 mmol, 1.0 equiv.) in DMF (6 mL), a heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. and 2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-2-methyloxirane (400 mg, 2.43 mmol, 1.85 equiv.) was added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature was raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc (60 mL) and water (15 mL). The organic layer was separated and the aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc (20 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product was purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound was converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample was prepared by dissolving free base in THF (10 mL) and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.45 (m, 2H), 7.38 (d, 2H), 7.04 (d, 1H), 6.86 (d, 2H), 4.20 (m, 2H), 4.08 (m, 2H), 3.72 (s, 3H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.0 (m, 2H), 2.84 (m, 3H), 1.50 (s, 3H).

Example 58 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)propan-2-ol (Compound 59)

Sodium hydride (38 mg, 1.6 mmol, 1.2 equiv.) was added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (290 mg, 1.31 mmol, 1.0 equiv.) in DMF (6 mL), a heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. and 2-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)-2-methyloxirane (400 mg, 2.2 mmol, 1.7 equiv.) was added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature was raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc (60 mL) and water (15 mL). The organic layer was separated and the aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc (20 mL). The combined organic layers were washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product was purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound was converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample was prepared by dissolving free base in 10 mL THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.45 (m, 2H), 7.24 (m, 2H), 7.07 (m, 2H), 4.24 (m, 2H), 4.11 (m, 2H), 3.88 (s, 3H), 2.97 (m, 4H), 2.84 (s, 3H), 1.45 (s, 3H).

Example 59 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(6-(trifluoromethyl)pyridin-3-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound 58)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) is added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF, and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and 2-(trifluoromethyl)-5-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (2-7.5 equiv.) is added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature is raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer is separated and the aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product is purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound is converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample is prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate.

Example 60 Preparation of 1-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyridin-3-ol (Compound 60)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) was added to a solution of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF, and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. and 3-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (2-7.5 equiv.) was added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature was raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer was separated and the aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers were washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product was purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound was converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample was prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.51 (m, 2H), 8.36 (m, 1H), 7.69 (m, 1H), 7.15 (s, 1H), 6.76 (m, 2H), 4.67 (m, 1H), 4.34 (m, 3H), 3.84 (m, 1H), 3.47 (m, 2H), 3.24 (m, 1H), 3.11 (s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H), 1.80 (s, 3H).

Example 61 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyridin-3-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound 61)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) was added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF, and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. and 3-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (2-7.5 equiv.) was added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature was raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer was separated and the aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers were washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product was purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound was converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample was prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.43 (s, 1H), 8.34 (d, 1H), 7.87 (d, 1H), 7.37 (s, 1H), 7.30 (m, 1H), 6.97 (m, 1H), 6.93 (d, 1H), 4.48 (m, 2H), 4.32 (m, 2H), 3.71 (m, 2H), 3.12 (s, 3H), 2.81 (m, 2H), 1.70 (s, 3H).

Example 62 Preparation of 1-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound 62)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) was added to a solution of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF, and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. and 4-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (2-7.5 equiv.) was added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature was raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer was separated and the aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers were washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product was purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound was converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample was prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.38 (d, 2H), 7.50 (d, 2H), 7.15 (s, 1H), 7.06 (d, 1H), 6.86 (d, 1H), 4.45 (m, 2H), 4.31 (m, 1H), 4.22 (m, 1H), 3.61 (m, 2H), 3.19 (m, 1H), 3.06 (s, 3H), 2.78 (m, 2H), 2.35 (s, 3H), 1.60 (s, 3H).

Example 63 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound 63)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) was added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. and 4-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (2-7.5 equiv.) was added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature was raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer was separated and the aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers were washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product was purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound was converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample was prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): d 8.42 (d, 2H), 7.35-7.20 (m, 3H), 7.00-6.90 (m, 2H), 4.10 (q, 2H), 3.50 (q, 2H), 2.95-2.68 (m, 4H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 1.55 (s, 3H).

Example 64 Preparation of 1-(5-(trifluoromethyl)pyridin-3-yl)-2-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)ethanol (Compound 65)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) is added to a solution of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and 3-(trifluoromethyl)-5-(oxiran-2-yl)pyridine (2-7.5 equiv.) is added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature is raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer is separated and the aqueous layer is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product is purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound is converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample is prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate.

Example 65 Preparation of 2-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-(5-(trifluoromethyl)pyridin-3-yl)ethanol (Compound 67)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) is added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and 3-(trifluoromethyl)-5-(oxiran-2-yl)pyridine (2-7.5 equiv.) is added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature is raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer is separated and the aqueous layer is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product is purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound is converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample is prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate.

Example 66 Preparation of 2-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)ethanol (Compound 69)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) is added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and 2-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)oxirane (2-7.5 equiv.) is added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature is raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer is separated and the aqueous layer is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product is purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound is converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample is prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate.

Example 67 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(6-propylpyridin-3-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound 71)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) is added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and 5-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)-2-propylpyridine (2-7.5 equiv.) added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature is raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer is separated and the aqueous layer is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product is purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound is converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample is prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate.

Example 68 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(3,4-difluorophenyl)propan-2-ol (Compound 73)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) is added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and 2-(3,4-difluorophenyl)-2-methyloxirane (2-7.5 equiv.) is added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature is raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer is separated and the aqueous layer is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product is purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound is converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample is prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate.

Example 69 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-chlorophenyl)propan-2-ol (Compound 64)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) is added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and 2-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-methyloxirane (2-7.5 equiv.) is added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature is raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer is separated and the aqueous layer is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product is purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound is converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample is prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate.

Example 70 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-chloro-3-fluorophenyl)propan-2-ol (Compound 66)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) is added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and 2-(4-chloro-3-fluorophenyl)-2-methyloxirane (2-7.5 equiv.) is added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature is raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer is separated and the aqueous layer is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product is purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound is converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample is prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate.

Example 71 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)propan-2-ol (Compound 68)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) is added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and 2-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-2-methyloxirane (2-7.5 equiv.) is added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature is raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer is separated and the aqueous layer is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product is purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound is converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample is prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate.

Example 72 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl)propan-2-ol (Compound 70)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) is added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and 2-(3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl)-2-methyloxirane (2-7.5 equiv.) is added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature is raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer is separated and the aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product is purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound is converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample is prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate.

Example 73 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(2,4-difluorophenyl)propan-2-ol (Compound 72)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) is added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and 2-(2,4-difluorophenyl)-2-methyloxirane (2-7.5 equiv.) is added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature is raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer is separated and the aqueous layer is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product is purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound is converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample is prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate.

Example 74 Preparation of 1-(8-fluoro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)propan-2-ol (Compound 75)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) is added to a solution of 8-fluoro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and 2-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-methyloxirane (2-7.5 equiv.) is added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature is raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer is separated and the aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product is purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound is converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample is prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate.

Example 75 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-2-cyclopropyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)propan-2-ol (Compound 77)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) is added to a solution of 8-chloro-2-cyclopropyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and 2-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-methyloxirane (2-7.5 equiv.) is added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature is raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer is separated and the aqueous layer is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product is purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound is converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample is prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate.

Example 76 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-phenylpropan-2-ol (Compound 79)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) was added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. and 2-methyl-2-phenyloxirane (2-7.5 equiv.) was added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature was raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer was separated and the aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers were washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product was purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound was converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample was prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.38 (d, 1H), 7.21 (m, 5H), 6.93 (m, 2H), 4.15 (m, 2H), 3.4 (m, 2H), 2.78 (m, 2H), 2.61 (m, 2H), 2.4 (s, 3H), 1.59 (s, 3H).

Example 77 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(2,4,6-trifluorophenyl)propan-2-ol (Compound 81)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) is added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and 2-(2,4,6-trifluorophenyl)-2-methyloxirane (2-7.5 equiv.) is added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature is raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer is separated and the aqueous layer is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product is purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound is converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample is prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate.

Example 78 Preparation of 3-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)butan-2-ol (Compound 74)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) is added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and 2-(4-fluorophenyl)-2,3-dimethyloxirane (2-7.5 equiv.) is added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature is raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer is separated and the aqueous layer is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product is purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound is converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample is prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate.

Example 79 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)propan-2-ol (Compound 76)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) is added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and 2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-2-methyloxirane (2-7.5 equiv.) is added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature is raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer is separated and the aqueous layer is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product is purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound is converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample is prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate.

Example 80 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)butan-2-ol (Compound 78)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) was added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. and 2-ethyl-2-(4-fluorophenyl)oxirane (2-7.5 equiv.) was added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature was raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer was separated and the aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers were washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product was purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound was converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample was prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.38 (m, 3H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 7.0 (m, 3H), 4.20 (m, 1H), 4.10 (m, 1H), 3.80 (m, 2H), 2.80 (m, 3H), 2.61 (m, 1H), 2.50 (s, 3H), 2.15 (m, 2H), 1.80 (m, 1H), 0.7 (t, 3H).

Example 81 Preparation of 3-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1,1,1-trifluoro-2-(4-fluorophenyl)propan-2-ol (Compound 80)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) is added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture is cooled to 0° C. and 2-(trifluoromethyl)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)oxirane (2-7.5 equiv.) is added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature is raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer is separated and the aqueous layer is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product is purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound is converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample is prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate.

Example 82 Preparation of 2-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-cyclopropyl-1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethanol (Compound 82)

Sodium hydride (1-3 equiv.) was added to a solution of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 equiv.) in DMF and heated to 120° C. for 1 h with stirring. The reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. and 2-cyclopropyl-2-(4-fluorophenyl)oxirane (2-7.5 equiv.) was added dropwise over 5 min. The temperature was raised to 120° C. and stirred for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and partitioned between EtOAc and water. The organic layer was separated and the aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers were washed with water and followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to provide the crude product. The product was purified by flash column chromatography over silica gel (230-400 mesh, deactivated with 1% triethylamine/hexane) using a gradient of 5 to 15% MeOH/EtOAc to yield the free base. The pure compound was converted to its oxalate salt. The analytical sample was prepared by dissolving free base in THF and treatment with 1 equiv. of oxalic acid dihydrate. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.40 (m, 3H), 7.20 (m, 1H), 7.0 (m, 3H), 4.42 (m, 1H), 4.38 (m, 1H), 4.15 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.45 (m, 1H), 3.0 (m, 4H), 1.50 (m, 1H), 1.1 (m, 1H), 0.5 (m, 4H).

Example 83 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 83 and 128)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)propan-2-ol (1 g, 2.68 mmol, 1 equiv.) was refluxed with 7 mL of 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. It was brought to RT and then cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. 15% aq. solution of KOH was dropwise added to the reaction mixture to attain pH 9-10. It was then extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The combined organic extracts were washed with 10 mL of water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. It was then column purified using 100-200 silica gel, using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of isomers (150 mg), which was separated by HPLC. Yield: 15 mg of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 25 mg of 8-chloro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (as a TFA salt). The isomers can alternatively be separated by silica gel chromatography using an EtOAc:hexane (80:20) eluent. TLC: three runs in EtOAc:hexane (80:20).

8-Chloro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole: ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 10.1 (bs, 1H), 7.64 (m, 2H), 7.59 (d, 2H), 7.24 (m, 2H), 7.19 (d, 1H), 5.35 (s, 1H), 5.21 (m, 2H), 4.65 (d, 1H), 4.3 (s, 2H), 3.76 (s, 1H), 3.5 (bs, 1H), 3.0 (s, 2H), 2.97 (s, 3H).

Example 84 Preparation of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-((E)-2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)allyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 85 and 130)

1-(1,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 was achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-((E)-2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)allyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 85 Preparation of 5-((E)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 87 and 132)

2-(4-Fluorophenyl)-1-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)propan-2-ol (4.6 g, 13.05 mmol, 1 equiv.) was heated to reflux with 14 mL of 25% aq. sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to 0-5° C. and made alkaline with 15% aq. KOH solution and extracted with THF:EtOAc (1:1 mixture, 2×30 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with water (15 mL) and then brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. 4.1 g of crude product was obtained which contained 5-((Z)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole as the minor isomer. This isomer was isolated by repeated flash chromatography using 230-400 mesh silica gel using EtOAc as eluent. Yield: 500 mg of 5-((E)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 1 g of 5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole were isolated as pure products.

5-(2-(4-Fluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole: ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.70-7.50 (m, 2H), 7.40-7.30 (d, 1H), 7.30-7.18 (m, 3H), 7.00-6.85 (d, 1H), 5.30 (s, 1H), 5.17 (s, 2H), 4.40 (bs, 2H), 4.28 (s, 2H), 3.50 (bs, 1H), 3.10-3.00 (t, 2H), 2.90 (s, 3H), 2.30 (s, 3H).

Example 86 Preparation of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-((E)-2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)allyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 89 and 136)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) was refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 was achieved. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers were washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product was purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-((E)-2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)allyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which were separated by HPLC.

8-Chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)allyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole: ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.74 (m, 1H), 8.16 (m, 1H), 7.59 (m, 2H), 7.52 d, 1H), 7.19 (d, 1H), 5.54 (d, 1H), 5.28 (m, 2H), 4.65 (m, 1H), 4.45 (m, 1H), 4.29 (m, 1H), 3.76 (m, 1H), 3.49 (m, 1H), 3.08 (m, 2H), 2.98 (s, 3H), 2.55 (s, 3H).

Example 87 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(6-(trifluoromethyl)pyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(6-(trifluoromethyl)pyridin-3-yl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 84 and 129)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(6-(trifluoromethyl)pyridin-3-yl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(6-(trifluoromethyl)pyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(6-(trifluoromethyl)pyridin-3-yl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 88 Preparation of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-((E)-2-(pyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-3-yl)allyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 91 and 131)

1-(1,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyridin-3-yl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-((E)-2-(pyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-3-yl)allyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 89 Preparation of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-((E)-2-(pyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-3-yl)allyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 86 and 133)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyridin-3-yl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) was refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 was achieved. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers were washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product was purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-((E)-2-(pyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-3-yl)allyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which were separated by HPLC.

8-Chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-3-yl)allyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole: ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.80 (m, 1H), 8.63 (m, 1H), 8.34 (m, 1H), 7.75 (m, 1H), 7.51 (s, 1H), 7.44 (d, 1H), 7.19 (d, 1H), 5.61 (m, 1H), 5.27 (m, 2H), 4.73 (m, 2H), 4.36 (m, 1H), 3.86 (m, 1H), 3.59 (m, 1H), 3.2 (m, 2H), 3.11 (s, 3H).

Example 90 Preparation of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-((E)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)allyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 88 and 135)

1-(1,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 was achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-((E)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)allyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 91 Preparation of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-((E)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)allyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 90 and 137)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 was achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-((E)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)allyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 92 Preparation of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-5-((E)-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-5-(2-(4-methoxyphenyl)allyl)-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 92 and 138)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is heated to 55° C. with sulfuric acid in water for 2.5 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5-10° C. and neutralized by dropwise addition of satd. aq. sodium hydrogen carbonate solution followed by extraction with EtOAc. The combined organic extract is washed with water, then brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum to obtain 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-5-((E)-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-5-(2-(4-methoxyphenyl)allyl)-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 93 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 93 and 140)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) was refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 was achieved. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers were washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product was purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which were separated by HPLC.

8-Chloro-5-(2-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole: ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.57 (m, 2H), 7.51 (d, 1H), 7.36 (d, 1H), 7.16 (m, 2H), 5.36 (s, 1H), 5.25 (m, 2H), 4.65 (m, 1H), 4.29 (m, 2H), 3.38 (s, 3H), 3.76 (m, 1H), 3.50 (m, 1H), 3.07 (m, 2H), 2.98 (s, 3H).

Example 94 Preparation of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-((E)-2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)vinyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 95)

2-(1,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)ethanol (1 equiv.) was refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 was achieved. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers were washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product was purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%).

Example 95 Preparation of 5-((E)-2-(5-(trifluoromethyl)pyridin-3-yl)vinyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 97)

1-(5-(Trifluoromethyl)pyridin-3-yl)-2-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)ethanol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%).

Example 96 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(5-(trifluoromethyl)pyridin-3-yl)vinyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 99)

2-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-(5-(trifluoromethyl)pyridin-3-yl)ethanol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%).

Example 97 Preparation of 5-(3-fluoro-4-methoxystyryl)-8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 94)

2-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)ethanol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%).

Example 98 Preparation of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-((E)-2-(6-propylpyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-(6-propylpyridin-3-yl)allyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 96 and 134)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(6-propylpyridin-3-yl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-((E)-2-(6-propylpyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-(6-propylpyridin-3-yl)allyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 99 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(3,4-difluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(3,4-difluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 98 and 142)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(3,4-difluorophenyl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(3,4-difluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(3,4-difluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 100 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(4-chlorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(4-chlorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 100 and 144)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-chlorophenyl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(4-chlorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(4-chlorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 101 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(4-chloro-3-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(4-chloro-3-fluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 101 and 139)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-chloro-3-fluorophenyl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product was purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(4-chloro-3-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(4-chloro-3-fluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 102 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 103 and 141)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 103 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 105 and 143)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(3-chloro-fluorophenyl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(3-chloro-4-fluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 104 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(2,4-difluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(2,4-difluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 107 and 145)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(2,4-difluorophenyl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(2,4-difluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(2,4-difluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 105 Preparation of 8-fluoro-5-((E)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-fluoro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 102 and 146)

1-(8-Fluoro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 8-fluoro-5-((E)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-fluoro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 106 Preparation of 8-chloro-2-cyclopropyl-5-((E)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-2-cyclopropyl-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 104 and 147)

1-(8-Chloro-2-cyclopropyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 8-chloro-2-cyclopropyl-5-((E)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-2-cyclopropyl-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 107 Preparation of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-((E)-2-phenylprop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-phenylallyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 106 and 148)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-phenylpropan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-((E)-2-phenylprop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-phenylallyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 108 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(2,4,6-trifluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(2,4,6-trifluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 108 and 150)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(2,4,6-trifluorophenyl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(2,4,6-trifluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(2,4,6-trifluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 109 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((E)-3-(4-fluorophenyl)but-2-en-2-yl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(3-(4-fluorophenyl)but-3-en-2-yl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 109 and 152)

3-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)butan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 8-chloro-5-((E)-3-(4-fluorophenyl)but-2-en-2-yl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(3-(4-fluorophenyl)but-3-en-2-yl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 110 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 111 and 154)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 111 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)but-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(-2-(4-fluorophenyl)but-2-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 113 and 156)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)butan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid (7 mL) for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)but-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(-2-(4-fluorophenyl)but-2-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 112 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((Z)-3,3,3-trifluoro-2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 115)

3-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1,1,1-trifluoro-2-(4-fluorophenyl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%).

Example 113 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-cyclopropyl-2-(4-fluorophenyl)vinyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-cyclopropylidene-2-(4-fluorophenyl)ethyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 110 and 149)

2-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-cyclopropyl-1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethanol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-cyclopropyl-2-(4-fluorophenyl)vinyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-5-(2-cyclopropylidene-2-(4-fluorophenyl)ethyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 114 Preparation of 5-((E)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-iodo-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-iodo-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 112 and 155)

2-(4-Fluorophenyl)-1-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-8-iodo-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 5-((E)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-iodo-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-8-iodo-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 115 Preparation of 2-(2-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-8-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-p-tolylethene (Compound 114)

2-(1,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-p-tolylethanol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%).

Example 116 Preparation of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-((E)-2-(pyrimidin-5-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyrimidin-5-yl)allyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 116 and 151)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyrimidin-5-yl)propan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-((E)-2-(pyrimidin-5-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyrimidin-5-yl)allyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 117 Preparation of 2-(2-ethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-8-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-p-tolylethene (Compound 117)

2-(2-Ethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-8-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-p-tolylethanol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%).

Example 118 Preparation of 2-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-p-tolylethene (Compound 118)

2-(1,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-p-tolylethanol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%).

Example 119 Preparation of 2-(2-ethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-p-tolylethene (Compound 119)

2-(2-Ethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-p-tolylethanol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%).

Example 120 Preparation of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-((E)-2-phenylprop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-phenylallyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compounds 121 and 153)

1-(1,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-phenylpropan-2-ol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-((E)-2-phenylprop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-phenylallyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, which are separated by HPLC.

Example 121 Preparation of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-((E)-2-(pyridin-3-yl)vinyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 123)

2-(1,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-(pyridin-3-yl)ethanol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%).

Example 122 Preparation of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-((E)-2-(pyridin-3-yl)vinyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 120)

2-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-(pyridin-3-yl)ethanol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%).

Example 123 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((E)-2-(6-(trifluoromethyl)pyridin-3-yl)vinyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 122)

2-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-(6-(trifluoromethyl)pyridin-3-yl)ethanol (1 equiv.) is refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid for 2 h. The reaction mixture is cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) is added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 is achieved. The reaction mixture is extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers are washed with water followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product is purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%).

Example 124 Preparation of 5-allyl-8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole

To a suspension of NaH (60% dispersion in oil, 240 mg, 6 mmol) in DMF (15 mL) at 0° C. was added 8-chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.1 g, 5 mmol) and the reaction mixture was stirred at 0° C. for 30 min, followed by addition of allyl bromide (0.51 mL, 6 mmol). The reaction mixture was allowed to warm to and was stirred at 25° C. for 3 h. MeOH was added and the reaction mixture was evaporated to dryness. The residue was purified by flash chromatography on silica gel using MeOH-DCM gradient. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6) δ (ppm): 7.53 (s, 1H), 7.47 (d, 1H), 7.15 (d, 1H), 5.94 (m, 1H), 5.1 (m, 1H), 4.83 (m, 1H), 4.78 (s, 2H), 4.25 (s, 2H), 3.44 (s, 2H), 3.02 (s, 2H), 2.86 (s, 3H).

Example 125 Preparation of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-((E)-3-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)allyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 125)

5-Allyl-8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (300 mg, 1.15 mmol, 1 equiv.) and 5-bromo-2-methylpyridine (198 mg, 1.15 mmol, 1 equiv.) were heated to 100° C. with palladium acetate (7.8 mg, 0.034 mmol), triphenyl phosphine (18 mg, 0.069 mmol) and triethyl amine (0.35 mL, 2 equiv.) in THF (6 mL) for 14 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and diluted with THF (10 mL), filtered over a Celite bed and concentrated. The concentrate was dissolved in EtOAc (20 mL) and washed with water (5 mL) followed by brine. The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, and evaporated under reduced pressure to obtain crude product that was purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD) δ (ppm): 8.57 (s, 1H), 8.39-8.37 (d, 1H), 7.74-7.72 (d, 1H), 7.51 (s, 1H), 7.41 (d, 1H), 7.17 (d, 1H), 6.78-6.72 (m, 1H), 6.28-6.24 (d, 1H), 5.02 (m, 2H), 4.7 (bs, 1H), 4.36 (bs, 1H), 3.87 (bs, 1H), 3.6 (bs, 1H), 3.29-3.24 (m, 2H), 3.12-3.10 (s, 3H), 2.7 (s, 3H).

Example 126 Preparation of 5-(4-fluorocinnamyl)-8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 126)

5-Allyl-8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 0.76 mmol, 1 equiv.) and 4-fluorobromobenzene (134 mg, 0.76 mmol, 1 equiv.) were heated to 100° C. with palladium acetate (5 mg, 0.023 mmol), triphenyl phosphine (12 mg, 0.046 mmol) and triethyl amine (0.22 mL, 2 equiv.) in THF (5 mL) for 14 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and diluted with THF (10 mL), filtered over a Celite bed and concentrated. The concentrate was dissolved in EtOAc (20 mL) and washed with water (5 mL) followed by brine. The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, and evaporated under reduced pressure to obtain crude product that was purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6) δ (ppm): 10.0 (bs, 1H), 7.61-7.58 (d, 2H), 7.44-7.40 (dd, 2H), 7.20-7.11 (m, 3H), 6.4 (d, 1H), 6.3 (m, 1H), 5.0 (m, 2H), 4.62 (d, 1H), 4.29-4.25 (m, 1H), 3.78 (m, 1H), 3.5 (m, 1H), 3.18 (m, 2H), 2.98 (s, 3H).

Example 127 Preparation of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-((E)-3-(pyridin-4-yl)allyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 127)

5-Allyl-8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (400 mg, 1.52 mmol, 1 equiv.) and 4-bromopyridine (240 mg, 1.52 mmol, 1 equiv.) were heated to 100° C. with palladium acetate (10 mg, 0.046 mmol), triphenyl phosphine (24 mg, 0.092 mmol) and triethyl amine (0.44 mL, 2 equiv.) in 10 mL of THF for 14 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and diluted with THF (10 mL), filtered over a Celite bed and concentrated. The concentrate was dissolved in EtOAc (40 mL) and washed with water (10 mL) followed by brine. The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, and evaporated under reduced pressure to obtain crude product that was purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6) δ (ppm): 0.64 (bs, 1H), 8.68-8.66 (d, 2H), 7.79-7.77 (d, 2H), 7.6-7.56 (m, 2H), 7.2-7.1 (d, 1H), 7.0-6.9 (m, 1H), 6.5-6.4 (d, 1H), 5.15-5.03 (m, 2H), 4.64-4.60 (d, 1H), 4.3-4.25 (m, 1H), 3.79-3.76 (m, 1H), 3.52-3.50 (m, 1H), 3.17 (bs, 2H), 2.98 (s, 3H).

Example 128 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-(2-(3-pyridyl)cyclohex-1-yl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole Step 1: Synthesis of 8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole

8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole was prepared according to Example 1.

Step 2: Synthesis of 3-cyclohexenylpyridine

3-Cyclohexenylpyridine was obtained as outlined in Barbero et al., Tet. Letters (1992), 33(39):5841-42.

Step 3: Preparation of Title Compound

To a solution of 8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.1 g, 0.45 mmol) in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (1.0 mL) was added powdered KOH (0.140 g, 2.5 mmol) and stirred for 10 min. at RT. 4-cyclohexenylpyridine (1.25 mol) was added and the reaction mixture was stirred for additional 4 h at 100° C. After completion of reaction (as analyzed by TLC), the reaction mixture was diluted with water (15 mL) and extracted with EtOAc (3×20 mL). The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure to obtain the product.

Example 144 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 83)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)propan-1-ol (1 g, 2.68 mmol, 1 equiv.) was refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid (7 mL) for 2 h, cooled to RT and then cooled to 5° C. in ice-water bath. 15% aqueous solution of KOH was added dropwise to the reaction mixture (pH 9-10), followed by extraction with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The combined organic extracts were washed with water (10 mL) followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum and purified by column chromatography using 100-200 silica gel, using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of isomers (150 mg), which was separated by HPLC. Yield: 15 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.68 (t, 2H), 7.54 (s, 1H), 7.21 (s, 2H), 7.16 (t, 2H), 6.97 (s, 1H), 4.8 (bs, 1H), 4.39 (bs, 1H), 3.85 (bs, 1H), 3.60 (bs, 1H), 3.13 (bs, 5H), 1.92 (s, 3H).

Example 145 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 87)

2-(4-fluorophenyl)-1-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)propan-2-ol (4.6 g, 13.05 mmol, 1 equiv.) was heated to reflux with 25% aqueous sulfuric acid (14 mL) for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to 0-5° C. and made alkaline with 15% aqueous KOH solution and extracted with THF:EtOAc (1:1 mixture, 2×30 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with water (15 mL) and brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum to obtain the crude product that was purified by flash chromatography on silica gel using EtOAc as eluent. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 10.0 (bs, 1H), 7.7 (m, 2H), 7.2 (m, 3H), 7.10 (d, 2H), 7.0 (d, 1H), 4.6 (d, 1H), 4.3 (d, 1H), 3.7 (bs, 1H), 3.49 (bs, 1H), 3.0 (bs, 2H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.4 (s, 3H), 1.8 (s, 3H).

Example 146 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-5-(2-(4-methoxyphenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 92)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)propan-2-ol (500 mg, 1.3 mmol, 1 equiv.) was heated to 55° C. with sulfuric acid (0.375 mL) in water (5 mL) for 2.5 h, cooled to 5-10° C. and neutralized by dropwise addition of saturated aqueous sodium hydrogen carbonate solution followed by extraction with EtOAc (2×15 mL). The combined organic extract was washed with water (10 mL), brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under reduced pressure to obtain 330 mg of product. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.60 (m, 3H), 7.24 (d, 1H), 7.19 (d, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 7.0 (m, 2H), 4.40 (m, 2H), 3.80 (s, 3H), 3.10 (m, 4H), 2.80 (s, 3H), 1.80 (s, 3H).

Example 147 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 93)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)propan-2-ol (1 g, 2.48 mmol, 1 equiv.) was refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid (7 mL) for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to 5° C. in ice-water bath. KOH (15% aqueous solution) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 was achieved. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with water (10 mL) followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of isomers, which were separated by HPLC. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.60 (m, 2H), 7.43 (m, 1H), 7.22-7.15 (m, 4H), 4.40 (m, 2H), 3.80 (s, 3H), 3.10 (m, 4H), 2.80 (s, 3H), 1.80 (s, 3H).

Example 148 Preparation of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-((E)-2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)vinyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 95)

2-(1,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)ethanol (1 g, 2.98 mmol, 1 eq) was refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid (7 mL) for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to 5° C. with an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aq. solution) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 was achieved. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The combined organic layers were washed with water (10 mL) followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product was purified by column chromatography over silica gel (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.8 (s, 1H), 8.55 (d, 1H), 7.95 (d, 1H), 7.75 (m, 2H), 7.35 (s, 1H), 7.28 (d, 1H), 7.0 (d, 1H), 4.8 (bs, 1H), 4.4 (bs, 1H), 3.9 (bs, 1H), 3.6 (bs, 1H), 3.4 (t, 2H), 3.15 (s, 3H), 2.75 (s, 3H), 2.45 (s, 3H).

Example 149 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 90)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (1 g, 2.81 mmol, 1 equiv.) was refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid (7 mL) for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to 5° C. in ice-water bath. KOH (15% aqueous solution) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 was achieved. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with water (10 mL) followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) followed by HPLC to provide pure product. ¹HNMR (DMSO, Oxalate Salt) δ (ppm): 8.60 (d, 2H), 7.62 (m, 3H), 7.40 (s, 1H), 7.30 (d, 1H), 7.20 (d, 1H), 4.40 (m, 2H), 3.10 (m, 4H), 2.99 (s, 3H), 1.90 (s, 3H).

Example 150 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 89)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)propan-2-ol (1 g, 2.70 mmol, 1 equiv.) was refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid (7 mL) for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to 5° C. in ice-water bath. KOH (15% aqueous solution) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 was achieved. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with water (10 mL) followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of isomers, which were separated by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.70 (s, 1H), 8.05 (d, 1H), 7.55 (s, 1H), 7.40 (d, 1H), 7.35 (m, 2H), 7.20 (m, 1H), 5.0 (m, 2H), 4.50 (m, 2H), 4.25 (m, 1H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.80 (m, 2H), 2.60 (s, 3H).

Example 151 Preparation of (E)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 88)

1-(1,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (6 g, 17.91 mmol) was dissolved in DCM (75 mL). DMF (1 mL) was added and the reaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Thionyl chloride (3.89 mL, 53.73 mmol) was diluted with DCM (75 mL) and added to the above reaction mixture dropwise. The reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 3 h. Progress of the reaction was monitored by TLC (10% MeOH-DCM). Upon completion of the reaction, the reaction mixture was evaporated to dryness and the residue was basified with saturated aqueous NaHCO₃ with cooling. The product was extracted with EtOAc, the organic layer was washed with water; dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated. The residue was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 2% MeOH-DCM to obtain 1.7 g of product as the free base. ¹HNMR (DMSO, Oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.70 (s, 1H), 7.69 (d, 2H), 7.46 (m, 1H), 7.31 (s, 1H), 7.13 (d, 1H), 7.06 (m, 1H), 6.85 (s, 1H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.10 (m, 2H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.66 (m, 1H), 2.40 (s, 3H), 2.20 (m, 2H), 1.90 (m, 2H).

Example 152 Preparation of (E)-2,8-dimethyl-5-styryl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 202)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (100 mg, 0.5 mmol), β-bromo styrene (91 mg, 0.55 mmol), CuI (9 mg, 0.05 mmol), L-proline (11 mg, 0.1 mmol) and potassium phosphate (212 mg, 1 mmol) taken in DMF (3 mL) under inert atmosphere, heated overnight at 80° C. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT, quenched with water, extracted with EtOAc, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and evaporated under reduced pressure. The crude product was purified by column chromatography to afford 35 mg of title compound as the free base. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.60-7.55 (d, 1H), 7.50-7.45 (m, 3H), 7.42-7.38 (m, 2H), 7.25-7.20 (m, 2H), 7.15-7.10 (d, 1H), 6.80-6.75 (d, 1H), 3.75 (s, 2H), 3.12-3.05 (m, 2H), 2.98-2.90 (m, 2H), 2.67 (s, 3H), 2.50 (s, 3H).

Example 153 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-phenylprop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 106)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-phenylpropan-2-ol (1 g, 2.82 mmol, 1 equiv.) was refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid (7 mL) for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to 5° C. in ice-water bath. KOH (15% aqueous solution) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 was achieved. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with water (10 mL) followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of isomers, which were separated by HPLC. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.66 (m, 2H), 7.60 (m, 1H), 7.40 (m, 3H), 7.25 (d, 1H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 7.08 (s, 1H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.40 (m, 2H), 3.0 (m, 2H), 2.85 (m, 3H), 1.90 (s, 3H).

Example 154 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-cyclopropyl-2-(4-fluorophenyl)vinyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 110)

2-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-cyclopropyl-1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethanol (1 g, 2.51 mmol, 1 equiv) was refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid (7 mL) for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to 5° C. in ice-water bath. KOH (15% aqueous solution) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 was achieved. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with water (10 mL) followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of isomers, which were separated by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.50 (m, 2H), 7.40 (d, 1H), 7.20 (m, 3H), 7.05 (m, 1H), 6.80 (d, 1H), 4.75 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.30 (m, 3H), 3.12 (s, 3H), 2.80 (m, 1H), 2.0 (m, 1H), 1.80 (m, 1H), 1.15 (m, 1H).

Example 155 Preparation of (Z)-8-chloro-5-(2-cyclopropyl-2-(4-fluorophenyl)vinyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 203)

2-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-cyclopropyl-1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethanol (1 g, 2.51 mmol, 1 equiv) was refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid (7 mL) for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to 5° C. KOH (15% aqueous solution) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with water (10 mL) followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of isomers, which were separated by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.40 (s, 1H), 7.20 (d, 1H), 7.10 (m, 3H), 6.90 (m, 2H), 6.70 (s, 1H), 4.60 (m, 1H), 4.22 (m, 1H), 3.70 (m, 1H), 3.40 (m, 1H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.80 (m, 2H), 1.80 (m, 1H), 1.0 (m, 2H), 0.8 (m, 2H).

Example 156 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((1E,3E)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)penta-1,3-dienyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 204)

2-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-cyclopropyl-1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethanol (398 g, 1 mmol) was dissolved thionyl chloride (3 mL) and stirred for 5 min. at RT. The solution was heated at 50° C. for 2 h. Excess thionyl chloride was removed under reduced pressure and the residue was dissolved in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (3 mL). KOH (472 mg, 8.4 mmol) was added and the reaction mixture was heated at 100° C. for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and diluted with ice-cold water. The aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc, the organic layer was washed with water, dried over sodium sulfate, and concentrated, under reduced pressure. The residue was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 2% MeOH-DCM followed by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.58 (s, 1H), 7.48 (m, 2H), 7.20 (m, 4H), 6.60 (s, 1H), 6.0 (d, 1H), 5.80 (m, 1H), 4.75 (m, 2H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.82 (m, 1H), 3.58 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 1H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.0 (d, 3H).

Example 157 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 205)

(E)-8-Chloro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.200 g) was dissolved in MeOH which was hydrogenated over 10% Pd—C at 40° C. and 30 bars H₂. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC. The solvent was evaporated and the residue was purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.58 (m, 2H), 7.42 (m, 1H), 7.25 (m, 3H), 7.15 (m, 2H), 6.80 (s, 1H), 4.80 (m, 1H), 4.20 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.35 (m, 2H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 2.90 (m, 1H), 1.95 (s, 3H).

Example 158 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-cyclobutyl-2-(4-fluorophenyl)vinyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 206)

2-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-cyclobutyl-1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethanol (500 mg, 1.2 mmol) was dissolved in thionyl chloride (5 mL) and the solution was stirred at RT for 3 h. Excess thionyl chloride was removed under reduced pressure and the residue was dissolved in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (3 mL) and the solution was stirred for 5 min. at RT. Powdered KOH (637 mg, 11 mmol) was added and the reaction mixture was heated at 100° C. for 3 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and diluted with water. The precipitate obtained was filtered and washed with hexane, followed by purification by HPLC. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.58 (m, 1H), 7.45 (d, 1H), 7.25 (m, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 7.0 (m, 3H), 6.70 (m, 1H), 4.30-4.20 (m, 3H), 3.65 (m, 2H), 3.50 (m, 2H), 2.90 (m, 2H), 2.80 (s, 3H), 2.20 (m, 2H), 1.80 (m, 1H), 1.60-1.30 (m, 1H).

Example 159 Preparation of (E)-4-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-3-(4-fluorophenyl)-N-methylbut-3-enamide (Compound 207)

Ethyl 4-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-3-(4-fluorophenyl)but-2-enoate (50 mg, 0.123 mmol; prepared according to General Method 5) in 40% aqueous methyl amine (1 mL) was heated overnight at 100° C. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and diluted with water (5 mL). A white solid precipitated out which was filtered and dried under vacuum. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.60 (m, 2H), 7.30 (d, 1H), 7.20 (m, 3H), 7.10 (m, 1H), 7.0 (d, 1H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.35 (m, 1H), 3.80 (m, 2H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.30 (m, 3H), 3.15 (s, 3H), 2.55 (s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 2H).

Example 160 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)hex-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 208)

1-(8-Chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)hexan-2-ol (800 mg, 1.8 mmol) was dissolved in thionyl chloride (5 mL) and the solution was stirred at RT for 2 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was dissolved in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, stirred for 5 min. at RT, powdered KOH (725 mg, 1.2 mmol) added, and then heated at 100° C. for 3 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and diluted with ice-water to obtain solid product which was filtered and washed with hexane. The product was purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.70 (m, 2H), 7.50 (m, 1H), 7.36 (m, 2H), 7.0 (m, 2H), 6.85 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 2H), 4.20 (m, 2H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.50 (m, 1H), 3.38 (m, 1H), 3.05 (m, 1H), 2.90 (s, 3H), 2.70 (m, 1H), 2.30 (m, 1H), 1.35 (m, 2H), 0.9 (t, 3H).

Example 161 Preparation of (E)-4-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-3-(4-fluorophenyl)but-3-enoic acid (Compound 209)

A mixture of ethyl 4-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-3-(4-fluorophenyl)but-2-enoate (50 mg, 0.123 mmol; prepared according to General Method 5) and 40% aqueous N,N-dimethylamine (1 mL) was heated overnight at 100° C. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT, diluted with water (5 mL) and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated to obtain the crude product, which was triturated with ether to obtain a pale yellow solid. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.65 (m, 2H), 7.30 (d, 1H), 7.20 (m, 3H), 7.05 (d, 1H), 6.90 (d, 1H), 4.35 (m, 2H), 3.50 (m, 2H), 3.20 (m, 4H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H).

Example 162 Preparation of (Z)-8-chloro-5-(2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 111)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)propan-2-ol (1 g, 2.36 mmol, 1 equiv.) was refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid (7 mL) for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to 5° C. in ice-water bath. KOH (15% aqueous solution) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 was achieved. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with water (10 mL) followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of isomers, which were separated by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.30 (m, 2H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 7.15 (d, 1H), 7.0 (d, 1H), 6.80 (d, 1H), 6.70 (s, 1H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.05 (m, 1H), 3.80 (m, 1H), 3.30 (m, 1H), 3.05 (m, 1H), 2.98 (s, 3H), 2.90 (m, 1H), 2.30 (s, 3H).

Example 163 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 210)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)propan-2-ol (1 g, 2.36 mmol, 1 equiv) was refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid (7 mL) for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to 5° C. in ice-water bath. KOH (15% aqueous solution) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with water (10 mL) followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under reduced pressure. The crude product was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of isomers, which were separated by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.50 (d, 1H), 7.40 (d, 1H), 7.36-7.20 (m, 4H), 6.55 (d, 1H), 4.78 (m, 1H), 4.10 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.40 (m, 3H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 1.80 (s, 3H).

Example 164 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-(4-chlorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 100)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-chlorophenyl)propan-2-ol (1 g, 2.57 mmol, 1 equiv.) was refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid (7 mL) for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to 5° C. in ice-water bath. KOH (15% aqueous solution) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 was achieved. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with water (10 mL) followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of isomers, which were separated by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.65 (d, 2H), 7.55 (s, 1H), 7.45 (d, 2H), 7.22 (s, 2H), 7.05 (s, 1H), 4.75 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.86 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.16 (m, 2H), 3.12 (s, 3H), 1.95 (s, 3H).

Example 165 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-(4-chlorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 211)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (36 mg, 0.181 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (4 mL). Copper (I) iodide (4 mg, 0.0181 mmol), L-proline (4 mg, 0.0362 mmol) and potassium phosphate (77 mg, 0.362 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-4-chlorobenzene (50 mg, 0.2183 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 80° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). Yield: 90 mg

Example 166 Preparation of (Z)-8-chloro-5-(2-(2-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 212)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL), Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-2-fluorobenzene (260 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-1% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC. Yield: 10 mg. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.25 (s, 1H), 7.10 (m, 3H), 6.90 (m, 2H), 6.82 (m, 1H), 6.70 (s, 1H), 4.62 (d, 1H), 4.0 (d, 1H), 3.70 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 1H), 2.92 (m, 1H), 2.82 (s, 3H), 2.70 (m, 1H), 2.0 (s, 3H).

Example 167 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-(2-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 213)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL). Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol), L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-2-fluorobenzene (260 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-1% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC. Yield: 5 mg. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.40 (m, 3H), 7.20 (m, 4H), 6.70 (d, 1H), 4.80 (m, 1H), 4.20 (m, 1H), 3.80 (m, 1H), 3.40-3.20 (m, 3H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 1.85 (s, 3H).

Example 168 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 214)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (68 mg, 0.34 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL). Copper (I) iodide (6.5 mg, 0.034 mmol) L-proline (7.8 mg, 0.068 mmol) and potassium phosphate (144 mg, 0.68 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 4-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-2-fluoro-1-methoxybenzene (100 mg, 0.408 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 80° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.42 (m, 2H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 7.0 (s, 1H), 4.75 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.95 (s, 3H), 3.85 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 1.90 (s, 3H).

Example 169 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 215)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (220 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol), L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-3,5-dichlorobenzene (318 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-5% MeOH-DCM. Yield: 135 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.50 (s, 1H), 6.25 (s, 1H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 7.0 (s, 2H), 6.90 (s, 1H), 4.40 (m, 2H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.90 (m, 2H), 2.30 (s, 3H).

Example 170 Preparation of (E)-8-fluoro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 216)

1-(8-Fluoro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (1 g, 2.9 mmol) was dissolved in thionyl chloride (10 mL) and the solution was stirred for 2 h. Excess thionyl chloride was removed under reduced pressure and the residue was dissolved in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (6 mL) and the solution was stirred for 5 min. at RT. Powdered KOH (1.7 g, 31 mmol) was added and the reaction mixture was heated at 100° C. for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT, diluted with ice water and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer washed with water, dried over sodium sulfate, and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified by silica gel chromatography eluting with 5% MeOH-DCM. ¹HNMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.85 (d, 2H), 8.40 (d, 2H), 7.80 (s, 1H), 7.30 (m, 2H), 7.05 (m, 1H), 4.75 (d, 1H), 4.40 (d, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.30 (m, 2H), 3.18 (s, 3H), 2.20 (s, 3H).

Example 171 Preparation of (E)-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 217)

1-(1,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (600 mg, 1.86 mmol) was dissolved in thionyl chloride (8 mL) and the solution was stirred for 1 h. Excess thionyl chloride was removed under reduced pressure and the residue was dissolved in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (3 mL) and the solution was stirred for 5 min. at RT. Powdered KOH (690 mg, 12.32 mmol) was added and the reaction mixture was heated at 100° C. for 1-2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT, diluted with ice water and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer washed with water, dried over sodium sulfate, and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified by silica gel chromatography eluting with 2% MeOH-DCM. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.85 (d, 2H), 8.40 (d, 2H), 7.82 (d, 1H), 7.60 (d, 1H), 7.30 (m, 2H), 7.20 (m, 1H), 4.80 (d, 1H), 4.40 (d, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.20 (m, 1H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.20 (s, 3H).

Example 172 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 218)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-3,5-dichlorobenzene (318 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-5% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC. The free base was converted into oxalate salt by treatment of oxalic acid (1 equiv) in THF. Yield: 18 mg as the oxalate salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.25 (s, 2H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 7.0 (m, 3H), 6.90 (s, 1H), 4.50 (m, 2H), 3.58 (m, 2H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.80 (m, 2H), 2.38 (s, 3H), 2.30 (s, 3H).

Example 173 Preparation of (E)-7-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 219)

1-(7-Chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (1 g, 2.8 mmol) in SOCl₂ (10 mL) was stirred RT for 2 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was dissolved in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (6 mL), KOH (1.5 g, 28 mmol) was added and heated at 100° C. for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT, diluted with water and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer was washed with water and concentrated and purified by silica gel chromatography, 100-200 mesh (eluent in 5% MeOH-DCM). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.90 (d, 2H), 8.40 (d, 2H), 7.80 (s, 1H), 7.55 (d, 1H), 7.38 (s, 1H), 7.22 (d, 1H), 4.80 (d, 1H), 4.40 (d, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.25 (m, 1H), 3.18 (s, 3H), 2.20 (s, 3H).

Example 174 Preparation of (Z)-5-(2-(2-chloro-4,5-difluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 220)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-2-chloro-4,5-difluorobenzene (321 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-5% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC. Yield: 10 mg as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.30 (m, 1H), 7.18 (s, 1H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 6.95 (d, 1H), 6.90 (s, 1H), 4.40 (d, 1H), 4.22 (d, 1H), 3.80 (m, 1H), 3.45 (m, 1H), 3.10 (m, 2H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.38 (s, 3H), 2.30 (s, 3H).

Example 175 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-(2-chloro-4,5-difluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 221)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol), L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-2-chloro-4,5-difluorobenzene (321 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-5% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC. Yield: 12 mg as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.50 (m, 2H), 7.32 (s, 1H), 7.25 (d, 1H), 7.15 (d, 1H), 6.70 (s, 1H), 4.75 (m, 1H), 4.38 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.25 (m, 2H), 3.15 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 1.90 (s, 3H).

Example 176 Preparation of (E)-6-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 222)

1-(6-Chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (650 mg, 1.8 mmol) in SOCl₂ (6.5 mL) was stirred at RT for 2 h. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC and ¹H NMR. The reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was dissolved in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (3 mL), KOH (737 mg, 13.1 mmol) was added and the reaction mixture was heated at 100° C. for 2 h. After it was cooled to RT, the reaction mixture was diluted with water and extracted with EtOAc. Organic was separated, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified by silica gel chromatography (eluent 5% MeOH-DCM). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.70 (d, 2H), 7.80 (d, 2H), 7.56 (s, 1H), 7.45 (d, 1H), 7.25 (d, 1H), 7.10 (t, 1H), 4.80 (m, 2H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 1H), 3.15 (s, 3H), 1.95 (s, 3H).

Example 177 Preparation of 5-cyclohexenyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 211)

To a solution of 2-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)yl)cyclohexyl methanesulfonate (0.33 g, 0.87 mmol) in NMP (3 mL), KOH (0.49 g, 8.7 mmol) was added at RT. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 120° C. The reaction was monitored by LCMS. Upon completion, the reaction mixture was diluted with water and extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layer was separated, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure and purified by column chromatography (silica gel 3% MeOH in DCM) to afford 200 mg of the desired product. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.50 (d, 2H), 7.40 (d, 2H), 7.23 (d, 1H), 7.1-7.0 (m, 2H), 6.9 (s, 1H), 3.8 (s, 2H), 3.0-2.8 (m, 4H), 2.6 (s, 3H), 2.45 (s, 3H), 2.0 (s, 3H).

Example 178 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 86)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyridin-3-yl)propan-2-ol (1 g, 2.81 mmol, 1 equiv.) was refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid (7 mL) for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to 5° C. in an ice-water bath. KOH (15% aqueous solution) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 was achieved. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with water (10 mL) followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under reduced pressure. The crude product was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of isomers, which were separated by HPLC. ¹HNMR (DMSO, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.90 (s, 1H), 8.60 (d, 1H), 8.10 (d, 1H), 7.50 (m, 2H), 7.22 (d, 2H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 3.6 (m, 2H), 2.70 (m, 4H), 2.45 (s, 3H), 1.90 (s, 3H).

Example 179 Preparation of (E)-6-fluoro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 223)

1-(6-Fluoro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (510 mg, 1.5 mmol) was dissolved in thionylchloride (5 mL) and stirred at RT for 2 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was dissolved in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (3 mL) and stirred for 5 min. at RT. Powdered KOH (616 mg, 10 mmol) was added, and the stirring was continued for additional 10 min. The reaction mixture was heated at 100° C. for 2 h. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC and NMR. The reaction mixture was diluted with water and extracted with EtOAc, washed with water, concentrated to obtain the crude product which was purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.80 (d, 2H), 8.0 (d, 2H), 7.70 (s, 1H), 7.40 (d, 1H), 7.30 (m, 1H), 7.10 (m, 1H), 4.80 (m, 1H), 4.30 (m, 1H), 3.80 (m, 2H), 3.10 (m, 2H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.0 (s, 3H).

Example 180 Preparation of (Z)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 224)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol), copper sulfate (50 mg, 0.2 mmol), 1,10-phenanthroline (72 mg, 0.4 mmol), potassium phosphate (425 mg, 2 mmol) and 4-(1-bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (237 mg, 1.2 mmol) were mixed in DMF (10 mL) and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 80° C. The reaction mixture was diluted with EtOAc and filtered through Celite. The filtrate was concentrated under reduced pressure and the residue was purified by silica gel chromatography (10% MeOH in DCM) to obtain (E)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (167 mg) as a brown semi solid that was further purified by HPLC to obtain the product as the TFA salt. ¹HNMR (DMSO, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.40 (m, 2H), 7.20 (s, 1H), 7.10 (m, 3H), 6.95 (d, 1H), 6.86 (d, 1H), 4.40 (m, 2H), 4.22 (m, 2H), 2.90 (s, 3H), 2.80 (m, 2H), 2.38 (s, 3H), 2.30 (s, 3H).

Example 181 Preparation of (Z)-5-(2-(3-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 225)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-3-fluorobenzene (258 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-5% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC. Yield: 40 mg as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.22 (d, 1H), 7.18 (s, 1H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 6.85 (t, 1H), 6.70 (s, 1H), 6.62 (d, 2H), 4.65 (d, 1H), 4.05 (d, 1H), 3.50 (m, 1H), 3.15 (m, 1H), 2.80 (s, 3H), 2.60 (m, 1H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.38 (m, 1H), 2.30 (s, 3H).

Example 182 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-(3-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 226)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-3-fluorobenzene (258 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-5% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC. Yield: 6 mg as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.40 (m, 1H), 7.30 (d, 1H), 7.22 (m, 2H), 7.10 (m, 3H), 6.90 (s, 1H), 4.80 (d, 1H), 4.20 (d, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.40 (m, 1H), 3.30 (m, 1H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.95 (m, 1H), 2.45 (s, 3H), 1.95 (s, 3H).

Example 183 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 103)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (69 mg, 0.31 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL). Copper (I) iodide (6 mg, 0.032 mmol) L-proline (7 mg, 0.063 mmol) and potassium phosphate (134 mg, 0.63 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 4-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-1,2-dichlorobenzene (100 mg, 0.378 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 80° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) followed by HPLC. Yield: 13 mg as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.82 (d, 1H), 7.62 (d, 2H), 7.58 (d, 1H), 7.22 (m, 2H), 7.10 (s, 1H), 4.80 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.62 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 3.15 (s, 3H), 1.95 (s, 3H).

Example 184 Preparation of (E)-8-fluoro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 102)

1-(8-Fluoro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)propan-2-ol (1 g, 2.80 mmol, 1 equiv.) was refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid (7 mL) for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to 5° C. in ice-water bath. KOH (15% aqueous solution) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 was achieved. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with water (10 mL) followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) to obtain a mixture of isomers, which were separated by HPLC. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.75 (m, 2H), 7.38-7.20 (m, 4H), 7.10 (s, 1H), 7.0 (t, 1H), 4.30 (m, 2H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 2.90 (m, 4H), 1.90 (s, 3H).

Example 185 Preparation of (E)-7-fluoro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 227)

7-Fluoro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 0.98 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL). Copper (I) iodide (18 mg, 0.09 mmol) L-proline (22 mg, 0.19 mmol) and potassium phosphate (410 mg, 1.96 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-4-fluorobenzene (250 mg, 1.17 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.76 (m, 2H), 7.50 (m, 1H), 7.30 (t, 2H), 7.10 (d, 2H), 7.0 (t, 1H), 4.30 (m, 2H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.80 (m, 4H), 1.90 (s, 3H).

Example 186 Preparation of (E)-7-chloro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 228)

7-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (220 mg, 0.90 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL). Copper (I) iodide (17 mg, 0.09 mmol), L-proline (20 mg, 0.18 mmol) and potassium phosphate (380 mg, 1.8 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-4-fluorobenzene (230 mg, 1.09 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.78 (m, 2H), 7.52 (d, 1H), 7.30 (m, 3H), 7.16 (d, 1H), 7.10 (s, 1H), 4.30 (m, 2H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.82 (m, 4H), 1.85 (s, 3H).

Example 187 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-7-(trifluoromethyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 229)

2-Methyl-7-trifluoromethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 0.78 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL). Copper (I) iodide (14 mg, 0.078 mmol), L-proline (17 mg, 0.156 mmol) and potassium phosphate (330 mg, 1.56 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-4-fluorobenzene (200 mg, 0.94 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). Yield: 25 mg. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.80 (m, 2H), 7.76 (d, 1H), 7.60 (s, 1H), 7.42 (d, 1H), 7.30 (t, 2H), 7.20 (s, 1H), 4.35 (m, 2H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 2.90 (m, 4H), 1.82 (s, 3H).

Example 188 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-(3,4-difluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 98)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (79 mg, 0.36 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (6 mL). Copper (I) iodide (8 mg, 0.036 mmol), L-proline (9 mg, 0.086 mmol) and potassium phosphate (183 mg, 0.86 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 4-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-1,2-difluorobenzene (100 mg, 0.43 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 80° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). Yield: 39 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.60 (m, 1H), 7.56 (s, 1H), 7.45 (m, 1H), 7.36 (m, 1H), 7.20 (s, 2H), 7.02 (s, 1H), 4.50 (m, 2H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.18 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 1.95 (s, 3H).

Example 189 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-(3,4-difluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 230)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (72 mg, 0.36 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL). Copper (I) iodide (7 mg, 0.036 mmol), L-proline (8 mg, 0.072 mmol) and potassium phosphate (153 mg, 0.72 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 4-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-1,2-difluorobenzene (100 mg, 0.43 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 80° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). Yield: 110 mg. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.80 (m, 1H), 7.50 (d, 2H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.20 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 7.0 (d, 1H), 4.36 (m, 2H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.0 (m, 2H), 2.90 (s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H), 1.90 (s, 3H).

Example 190 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 231)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (63 mg, 0.32 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL). Copper (I) iodide (6 mg, 0.032 mmol), L-proline (7 mg, 0.064 mmol) and potassium phosphate (136 mg, 0.64 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 4-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-1,2-dichlorobenzene (100 mg, 0.38 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 80° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) followed by HPLC. Yield: 11 mg as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.95 (d, 1H), 7.70 (m, 2H), 7.30 (s, 2H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 7.0 (d, 1H), 4.30 (m, 2H), 3.40 (m, 2H), 3.0 (m, 2H), 2.90 (s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H), 1.90 (s, 3H).

Example 191 Preparation of (E)-8,9-dichloro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 232)

8,9-Dichloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 0.78 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (14 mg, 0.078 mmol), L-proline (17 mg, 0.156 mmol) and potassium phosphate (330 mg, 1.56 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-4-fluorobenzene (200 mg, 0.94 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-5% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.50 (m, 2H), 7.25 (m, 1H), 7.10 (t, 2H), 7.05 (d, 1H), 6.75 (s, 1H), 5.10 (d, 1H), 4.40 (d, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.38 (m, 1H), 3.22 (m, 1H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 2.90 (m, 1H), 1.90 (s, 3H).

Example 192 Preparation of (Z)-8-chloro-5-(2-(3-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 233)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (220 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol), L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-3-fluorobenzene (258 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-5% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC. Yield: 85 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.42 (s, 1H), 7.20 (d, 1H), 7.12 (m, 2H), 6.90 (t, 1H), 7.82 (d, 2H), 6.78 (dd, 1H), 4.60 (d, 1H), 4.30 (d, 1H), 3.70 (m, 1H), 3.40 (m, 1H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.80 (m, 2H), 2.30 (s, 3H).

Example 193 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-(3-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 234)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (220 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol), L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-3-fluorobenzene (258 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-5% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC. Yield: 30 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.56 (s, 1H), 7.50 (m, 2H), 7.40 (d, 1H), 7.22 (s, 2H), 7.15 (m, 1H), 7.05 (s, 1H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.82 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 1.95 (s, 3H).

Example 194 Preparation of (E)-4-(1-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)prop-1-en-2-yl)phenol (Compound 235)

To a stirred solution of 1-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)propan-2-ol (0.145 g, 0.39 mmol) in DCM (10 mL) at −78° C. was added borontribromide (0.293 g in 5 mL DCM). The reaction mixture was stirred at −78° C. for 30 min. and then at 25° C. for 1 h. The solution was poured into ice water, basified with saturated aqueous NaHCO₃ and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and evaporated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified by HPLC to obtain 12 mg of product as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.50 (d, 2H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.16 (d, 1H), 7.08 (d, 1H), 6.90 (s, 1H), 6.82 (d, 2H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.80 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.10 (m, 5H), 2.40 (s, 3H), 1.85 (s, 3H).

Example 195 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-(4-methoxyphenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 236)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (36.7 mg, 0.184 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (6 mL). Copper (I) iodide (4 mg, 0.0184 mmol), L-proline (4.2 mg, 0.037 mmol) and potassium phosphate (78 mg, 0.37 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-4-methoxybenzene (50 mg, 0.22 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 80° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). Yield: 45 mg. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.60 (d, 2H), 7.25 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 7.0 (m, 4H), 4.30 (m, 2H), 3.80 (s, 3H), 3.50 (m, 2H), 2.98 (m, 2H), 2.85 (s, 3H), 2.38 (s, 3H), 1.80 (s, 3H).

Example 196 Preparation of (Z)-8-chloro-5-(2-(2-chlorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 237)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (220 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol), L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-2-chlorobenzene (277 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-5% MeOH-DCM. Yield: 50 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.38 (d, 1H), 7.25 (m, 2H), 7.16-7.0 (m, 4H), 6.85 (s, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 4.30 (m, 1H), 3.70 (m, 1H), 3.50 (m, 1H), 3.10 (m, 2H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.30 (s, 3H).

Example 197 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-(2-chlorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 238)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (220 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol), L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-2-chlorobenzene (277 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-5% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC. Yield: 20 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.58 (s, 1H), 7.50 (m, 2H), 7.40 (m, 3H), 7.22 (d, 1H), 6.60 (s, 1H), 4.40 (m, 2H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.22 (m, 2H), 3.15 (s, 3H), 1.90 (s, 3H).

Example 198 Preparation of (E)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 91)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (600 mg, 3 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (12 mL). Copper (I) iodide (114 mg, 0.6 mmol), L-proline (100 mg, 0.87 mmol) and potassium phosphate (1.2 g, 6 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 3-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (0.772 g, 3.9 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated at 85° C. for 2 h and 140° C. for 5 h (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). Yield: 85 mg. ¹HNMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 9.05 (d, 1H), 8.78 (d, 1H), 8.60 (d, 1H), 7.90 (m, 1H), 7.30 (d, 2H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 4.75 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.82 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.10 (s, 3H).

Example 199 Preparation of (Z)-8-methoxy-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 239)

1-(8-Methoxy-2-methyl-2,3,4,4a-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(9bH)-yl)-2-pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (500 mg, 1.4 mmol) was dissolved in thionylchloride (5 mL) was stirred at RT for 2 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was dissolved in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (4 mL) and stirred for 5 min. Powdered KOH (798 mg, 14.2 mmol) was added and stirring was continued at RT for additional 5 min. The reaction mixture was heated at 100° C. for 1 h. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC and NMR. The reaction mixture was cooled at RT, diluted with water and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer was washed with water, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated and purified the compound by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.25 (d, 2H), 7.0 (m, 4H), 6.90 (d, 1H), 6.70 (d, 1H), 3.90 (m, 2H), 3.80 (s, 3H), 3.0 (t, 2H), 2.70 (s, 3H), 2.62 (m, 2H), 1.95 (s, 3H).

Example 200 Preparation of (Z)-8-chloro-5-(2-(2-chloro-4,5-difluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 240)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,4a,5,9b-hexahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (220 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol), L-proline (23, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-2-chloro-4,5-difluorobenzene (321 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-5% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC. Yield: 30 mg as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.40 (d, 1H), 7.30 (m, 1H), 7.22 (d, 1H), 7.15 (t, 1H), 7.08 (d, 1H), 6.90 (s, 1H), 4.40 (m, 2H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.10 (m, 2H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 2.30 (s, 3H).

Example 201 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-(2-chloro-4,5-difluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 241)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,4a,5,9b-hexahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (220 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol), L-proline (23, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-2-chloro-4,5-difluorobenzene (321 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-5% MeOH-DCM. Yield: 60 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.58 (m, 3H), 7.40 (d, 1H), 7.22 (d, 1H), 6.70 (s, 1H), 3.80 (m, 4H), 3.22 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 1.82 (s, 3H).

Example 202 Preparation of (Z)-5-(2-(2-chlorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 242)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol), L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-2-chlorobenzene (277 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-5% MeOH-DCM. Yield: 0.37 mg as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.25 (m, 2H), 7.10 (t, 1H), 7.05 (s, 1H), 7.0 (m, 2H), 6.90 (d, 1H), 6.75 (s, 1H), 4.40 (d, 1H), 4.0 (d, 1H), 3.40 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 1H), 2.90 (m, 1H), 2.80 (s, 3H), 2.65 (m, 1H), 2.40 (s, 3H), 2.30 (s, 3H).

Example 203 Preparation of (E)-7,8-dichloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 243)

A solution of 1-(7,8-dichloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (500 mg, 1.2 mmol) in thionylchloride (5 mL) and stirred at RT for 5 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was dissolved in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (5 mL) and the solution was stirred at RT for 5 min. Powdered KOH (482 mg, 8.5 mmol) was added and the reaction mixture was heated at 100° C. for 1 h. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC and NMR. Upon completion, the reaction mixture was cooled at RT, diluted with water and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer was washed with water, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, concentrated under reduced pressure and the residue purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, formate salt) δ (ppm): 8.60 (d, 2H), 7.70 (d, 2H), 7.65 (s, 1H), 7.38 (s, 1H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 4.0 (s, 2H), 3.20 (t, 2H), 2.98 (t, 2H), 2.80 (s, 3H), 2.0 (s, 3H).

Example 204 Preparation of (Z)-7,8-dichloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 244)

7,8-Dichloro-5-(2-hydroxy-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,4a,5,9b-hexahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (500 mg, 1.2 mmol) in thionylchloride (5 mL) was stirred at RT for 5 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was dissolved in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (5 mL) and the solution was stirred for 5 min. at RT. Powdered KOH (482 mg, 8.5 mmol) was added and the reaction mixture was heated at 100° C. for 1 h. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC and NMR. The reaction mixture was cooled at RT, diluted with water and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer was washed with water, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, concentrated under reduced pressure and the residue purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, formate salt) δ (ppm): 8.30 (d, 2H), 7.50 (s, 1H), 7.20 (s, 1H), 7.05 (d, 2H), 6.95 (s, 1H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 2.85 (m, 2H), 2.70 (m, 2H), 2.58 (s, 3H), 2.38 (s, 3H).

Example 205 Preparation of (E)-8,9-dichloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 245)

8,9-Dichloro-5-(2-hydroxy-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,4a,5,9b-hexahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (500 mg, 1.2 mmol) was dissolved in thionylchloride (5 mL) and stirred at RT for 5 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was dissolved in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (5 mL) and the solution was stirred for 5 min. at RT. Powdered KOH (482 mg, 8.5 mmol) was added and the reaction mixture was heated at 100° C. for 1 h. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC and NMR. Upon completion, the reaction mixture was cooled at RT, diluted with water and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer was washed with water, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, concentrated under reduced pressure and the residue purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, formate salt) δ (ppm): 8.60 (d, 2H), 7.70 (d, 2H), 7.30 (m, 2H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 4.60 (m, 2H), 3.40 (m, 2H), 3.10 (m, 2H), 2.90 (s, 3H), 2.0 (s, 3H).

Example 206 Preparation of (E)-8-methoxy-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 246)

1-(8-Methoxy-2-methyl-2,3,4,4a-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(9bH)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (500 mg, 1.4 mmol) in thionylchloride (5 mL) and stirred at RT for 2 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated followed under reduced pressure. The residue was dissolved in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (4 mL) and the solution was stirred for 5 min. at RT. Powdered KOH (798 mg, 14.2 mmol) was added, the reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 5 min. and then at 100° C. for 1 h. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC and NMR. Upon completion the reaction mixture was cooled at RT, diluted with water and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer was washed with water, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, concentrated under reduced pressure and the residue purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.58 (d, 2H), 7.70 (d, 2H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 6.95 (s, 1H), 6.80 (d, 1H), 3.95 (s, 2H), 3.80 (s, 3H), 3.10 (t, 2H), 2.90 (t, 2H), 2.70 (s, 3H), 2.0 (s, 3H).

Example 207 Preparation of (Z)-5-(2-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 247)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol), L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. (1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-3,4-dichlorobenzene (318 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-5% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC. Yield: 10 mg as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.30 (d, 1H), 7.22 (d, 2H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 7.0 (d, 1H), 6.92 (d, 1H), 6.85 (d, 1H), 4.40 (d, 1H), 4.30 (d, 1H), 3.70 (m, 1H), 3.40 (m, 1H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.80 (m, 2H), 2.40 (s, 3H), 2.30 (s, 3H).

Example 208 Preparation of (E)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 85)

1-(1,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)propan-2-ol (1 g, 2.86 mmol, 1 equiv.) was refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid (7 mL) for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to 5° C. in ice-water bath. KOH (15% aqueous solution) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture until pH 9-10 was achieved. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with water (10 mL) followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%), followed by further purification by HPLC.

¹HNMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm) 8.90 (s, 1H), 8.60 (d, 1H), 7.80 (d, 1H), 7.30 (d, 2H), 7.16 (d, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 4.78 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 3.16 (s, 3H), 3.80 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.05 (s, 3H).

Example 209 Preparation of (E)-7,8-dichloro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 248)

7,8-Dichloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (900 mg, 3.54 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL). Copper (I) iodide (66 mg, 0.354 mmol), L-proline (81 mg, 0.69 mmol) and potassium phosphate (1.5 g, 7.08 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(2-Bromovinyl)-4-fluorobenzene (900 mg, 4.23 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 80° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-10% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC.

Example 210 Preparation of (E)-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-8-(trifluoromethyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 249)

2-Methyl-8-(trifluoromethyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (239 mg, 0.94 mmol), and potassium phosphate (399 mg, 1.88 mmol) were mixed in DMF and the suspension was purged with nitrogen. The suspension was heated at 140° C. for 10 min. Copper (I) iodide (17.86 mg, 0.094 mmol) and L-proline (21.64 mg, 0.188 mmol) were added followed by a solution of 4-(1-bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (399 mg, 1.88 mmol) in DMF. The contents were purged with nitrogen and heated overnight at 140° C. The contents were cooled to RT and poured into water. The precipitate obtained was filtered, dried and purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-10% MeOH-DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.82 (d, 2H), 8.30 (d, 2H), 7.95 (s, 1H), 7.70 (s, 1H), 7.58 (d, 1H), 7.45 (d, 1H), 4.50 (m, 1H), 3.95 (m, 1H), 3.62 (m, 1H), 3.30 (m, 3H), 3.18 (s, 3H), 2.10 (s, 3H).

Example 211 Preparation of (E)-2-methyl-5-(2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-7-(trifluoromethyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 250)

2-Methyl-8-(trifluoromethyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (203 mg, 0.8 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL). Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.10 mmol), L-proline (23 mg, 0.20 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 5-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-2-methylpyridine (212 mg, 1 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-5% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 9.10 (s, 1H), 8.30 (d, 1H), 7.65 (d, 1H), 7.55 (d, 1H), 7.45 (d, 1H), 7.40 (s, 1H), 7.10 (s, 1H), 4.80 (m, 1H), 4.20 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.40 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 3.0 (m, 1H), 2.82 (s, 3H), 2.0 (s, 3H).

Example 212 Preparation of (E)-8-fluoro-2-methyl-5-(2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 251)

8-Fluoro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (203 mg, 0.8 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL). Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.10 mmol), L-proline (23 mg, 0.20 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 5-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-2-methylpyridine (212 mg, 1 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 80° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). The product was further purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 9.0 (s, 1H), 8.10 (d, 1H), 7.50 (d, 1H), 7.0 (m, 4H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.10 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.30 (m, 2H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 2.90 (m, 1H), 2.80 (s, 3H), 2.0 (s, 3H),

Example 213 Preparation of (E)-6-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 252)

6-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (203 mg, 0.8 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL). Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.10 mmol), L-proline (23 mg, 0.20 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 5-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-2-methylpyridine (212 mg, 1 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 80° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). The product was further purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 9.10 (s, 1H), 8.20 (d, 1H), 7.60 (d, 1H), 7.30 (m, 2H), 7.20 (d, 1H), 7.10 (t, 1H), 4.75 (m, 1H), 4.18 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.30 (m, 2H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 2.90 (m, 1H), 2.80 (s, 3H), 1.90 (s, 3H).

Example 214 Preparation of (E)-7-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 253)

7-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (176 mg, 0.8 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL). Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.10 mmol), L-proline (23 mg, 0.20 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2.00 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 5-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-2-methylpyridine (212 mg, 1 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 80° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). The product was further purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 9.10 (s, 1H), 8.30 (d, 1H), 7.65 (d, 1H), 7.38 (d, 1H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 4.80 (d, 1H), 4.18 (d, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.30 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.98 (m, 1H), 2.82 (s, 3H), 2.05 (s, 3H).

Example 215 Preparation of (E)-2-methyl-5-(2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 254)

2-Methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (186 mg, 0.8 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL). Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.10 mmol), L-proline (23 mg, 0.20 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 5-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-2-methylpyridine (212 mg, 1 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 80° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). The product was further purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 9.10 (s, 1H), 8.30 (d, 1H), 7.70 (m, 1H), 7.42 (d, 1H), 7.25 (m, 2H), 7.10 (d, 2H), 4.80 (m, 1H), 4.20 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.40 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 3.0 (m, 1H), 2.82 (s, 3H), 2.05 (s, 3H).

Example 216 Preparation of (E)-7,8-difluoro-2-methyl-5-(2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 255)

7,8-Difluoro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (177 mg, 0.8 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL). Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.10 mmol), L-proline (23 mg, 0.20 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 5-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-2-methylpyridine (212 mg, 1 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 80° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). The product was further purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 9.10 (s, 1H), 8.22 (d, 1H), 7.60 (d, 1H), 7.15 (t, 1H), 7.02 (s, 1H), 6.95 (t, 1H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.10 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.30 (m, 2H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 2.90 (m, 1H), 2.80 (s, 3H), 2.0 (s, 3H).

Example 217 Preparation of (Z)-8-chloro-5-(2-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 256)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol), L-proline (24 mg, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-4-fluorobenzene (318 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 90° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-3% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC. Yield: 13 mg as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.45 (d, 1H), 7.30 (d, 1H), 7.20 (d, 2H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 6.90 (dd, 1H), 6.82 (s, 1H), 4.62 (m, 1H), 4.30 (m, 1H), 3.70 (m, 1H), 3.42 (m, 1H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.80 (m, 2H), 2.35 (s, 3H).

Example 218 (E)-2,3,8-trimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b-]indole (Compound 257)

2,3,8-Trimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (107 mg, 0.5 mmol), and potassium phosphate (414 mg, 2 mmol) were mixed in DMF and the suspension was purged with nitrogen. The suspension was heated at 140° C. for 10 min. Copper (I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol) and L-proline (11.5 mg, 0.1 mmol) were added followed by a solution of 4-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (107.83 mg, 0.55 mmol) in DMF. The contents were purged with nitrogen and heated overnight at 140° C. The contents were cooled to RT and poured into water. The precipitate obtained was filtered, dried and purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh, neutralized with aqueous ammonia) eluting with 0-4% MeOH-DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.62 (d, 2H), 7.42 (d, 2H), 7.25 (d, 1H), 7.10 (s, 1H), 7.0 (s, 2H), 3.90 (d, 1H), 3.70 (d, 1H), 2.90 (m, 1H), 2.80 (m, 1H), 2.52 (m, 1H), 2.50 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.0 (s, 3H), 1.20 (d, 3H).

Example 219 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,8-trimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 258)

2,3,8-Trimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (107 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol), L-proline (11.5 mg, 0.1 mmol) and potassium phosphate (414 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(2-bromovinyl)-4-fluorobenzene (107.83 mg, 0.55 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 100° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-7% MeOH-DCM. Yield: 92 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.70 (m, 2H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.10 (m, 4H), 6.95 (s, 1H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.60 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 1H), 2.95 (m, 4H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 1.90 (s, 3H), 1.50 (d, 3H).

Example 220 Preparation of (E)-2,3,8-trimethyl-5-(2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 259)

2,3,8-Trimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (107 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol), L-proline (11.5 mg, 0.1 mmol) and potassium phosphate (414 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 5-(2-bromovinyl)-2-methylpyridine (116 mg, 0.55 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 100° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-7% MeOH-DCM. Yield: 125 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.78 (s, 1H), 8.22 (d, 1H), 7.90 (s, 1H), 7.58 (d, 1H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 4.60 (m, 2H), 4.0 (m, 1H), 3.30 (m, 1H), 3.05 (m, 3H), 2.95 (m, 1H), 2.65 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.0 (s, 3H), 1.50 (d, 3H).

Example 221 Preparation of (E)-6-fluoro-2-methyl-5-(2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 260)

6-Fluoro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (203 mg, 0.8 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL). Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.10 mmol), L-proline (23 mg, 0.20 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 5-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-2-methylpyridine (212 mg, 1 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 80° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). The product was further purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 9.10 (s, 1H), 8.30 (d, 1H), 7.62 (m, 1H), 7.22 (s, 1H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 7.10 (m, 1H), 6.95 (m, 1H), 5.80 (m, 1H), 4.10 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.30 (m, 2H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 2.95 (m, 1H), 2.80 (s, 3H), 2.0 (s, 3H).

Example 222 Preparation of (E)-7-fluoro-2-methyl-5-(2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 261)

7,8-Fluoro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (177 mg, 0.8 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL). Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.10 mmol), L-proline (23 mg, 0.20 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2.00 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 5-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-2-methylpyridine (212 mg, 1.00 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 80° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). The product was further purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 9.10 (s, 1H), 8.26 (d, 1H), 7.64 (d, 2H), 7.35 (m, 1H), 7.08 (s, 1H), 6.99 (t, 1H), 6.82 (dd, 1H), 4.78 (m, 1H), 4.10 (m, 1H), 3.82 (m, 1H), 3.50-3.30 (m, 2H), 3.06 (s, 3H), 2.90 (m, 1H), 2.82 (s, 3H), 2.05 (s, 3H).

Example 223 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 262)

8-Chloro-2,3-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (117 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol), L-proline (11.5 mg, 0.1 mmol) and potassium phosphate (212 mg, 1 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-4-fluorobenzene (118 mg, 0.55 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 90° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-7% MeOH-DCM. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.72 (m, 2H), 7.61 (s, 1H), 7.30 (m, 3H), 7.20 (d, 1H), 7.11 (s, 1H), 4.40 (m, 2H), 3.20 (m, 1H), 2.80 (m, 5H), 1.84 (s, 3H), 1.40 (d, 3H).

Example 224 Preparation of (E)-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-8-(trifluoromethoxy)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 263)

2-Methyl-8-(trifluoromethoxy)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (135 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol), L-proline (11.5 mg, 0.1 mmol) and potassium phosphate (414 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 4-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (116 mg, 0.55 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 90° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-7% MeOH-DCM. Yield: 12 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.82 (d, 2H), 8.30 (d, 2H), 7.78 (s, 1H), 7.50 (s, 1H), 7.38 (d, 1H), 7.22 (d, 1H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.10 (s, 3H).

Example 225 Preparation of (Z)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(3-methyl-2-(pyridin-4-yl)but-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 264)

2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.08 g, 0.4 mmol), 4-(1-bromo-3-methylbut-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (0.1 g, 0.44 mmol), potassium phosphate (0.169 g, 0.797 mmol), L-proline (0.013 g, 0.113 mmol), and copper (I) iodide (0.015 g, 0.079 mmol) were mixed in DMF (5 mL) and purged with nitrogen. The contents were cooled to RT and poured into water. The precipitate obtained was filtered, dried and purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.50 (d, 2H), 7.60 (d, 2H), 7.20 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 6.95 (d, 2H), 4.60 (m, 1H), 4.30 (m, 1H), 3.80 (m, 1H), 3.50 (m, 1H), 3.10 (m, 1H), 3.05 (m, 5H), 2.38 (s, 3H), 1.38 (d, 6H).

Example 226 Preparation of (Z)-8-chloro-2-methyl-5-(3-methyl-2-(pyridin-4-yl)but-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 265)

8-Chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (500 mg, 2.27 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (10 mL). Copper (I) iodide (86 mg, 0.452 mmol), L-proline (0.075 g, 0.652 mmol) and potassium phosphate (0.963 g, 4.54 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 4-(1-Bromo-3-methylbut-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (0.65 g, 2.87 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 100° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). The product was further purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.50 (d, 2H), 7.60 (d, 2H), 7.40 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 2H), 7.05 (s, 1H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.30 (m, 1H), 3.80 (m, 1H), 3.50 (m, 1H), 3.10 (m, 6H), 1.30 (d, 6H).

Example 227 Preparation of (E)-2-ethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 266)

2-Ethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (150 mg, 0.65 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (14 mg, 0.13 mmol), L-proline (12 mg, 0.065 mmol) and potassium phosphate (275 mg, 1.3 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 4-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (195 mg, 0.9 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). The product was further purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.70 (d, 2H), 8.0 (d, 2H), 7.60 (d, 2H), 7.30 (m, 2H), 7.20 (t, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.50 (q, 2H), 3.36 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 2.10 (s, 3H), 1.50 (t, 3H).

Example 228 Preparation of (E)-8-isopropyl-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 267)

8-Isopropyl-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (150 mg, 0.65 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (14 mg, 0.074 mmol), L-proline (17 mg, 0.015 mmol) and potassium phosphate (340 mg, 1.48 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 4-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (220 mg, 0.9 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). The product was further purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.80 (d, 2H), 8.20 (d, 2H), 7.70 (s, 1H), 7.40 (s, 1H), 7.20 (m, 2H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.70 (m, 1H), 3.22 (m, 3H), 3.15 (s, 3H), 3.0 (m, 1H), 2.10 (s, 3H), 1.30 (d, 6H).

Example 229 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-8-(trifluoromethyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 268)

2-Methyl-8-(trifluoromethyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (127 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol), L-proline (11.5 mg, 0.1 mmol) and potassium phosphate (212 mg, 1 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-4-fluorobenzene (118 mg, 0.55 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 90° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-3% MeOH-DCM. The free base was converted into oxalate salt by treatment of oxalic acid (1 equiv) in THF. Yield: 65 mg as the oxalate salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.90 (s, 1H), 7.70 (t, 2H), 7.50 (d, 1H), 7.40 (d, 1H), 7.20 (t, 2H), 7.0 (s, 1H), 4.60 (m, 2H), 3.78 (m, 2H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 1.90 (s, 3H).

Example 230 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((Z)-2-(2,4-difluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 107)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (220 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol), L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(2-Bromo-1-methyl-vinyl)-2,4-difluoro-benzene (279 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-2% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC. Yield: 23 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.27 (d, 1H), 7.00 (m, 2H), 6.93 (dd, 1H), 7.83 (d, 1H), 6.78 (m, 1H), 6.70 (m, 1H), 3.52 (s, 2H), 2.80 (t, 2H), 2.70 (t, 2H), 2.50 (s, 3H), 2.30 (s, 3H).

Example 231 Preparation of (E)-2-ethyl-8-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 269)

2-Ethyl-8-methyl-2,3,4,4a,5,9b-hexahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (150 mg, 0.69 mmol) potassium phosphate (292.5 mg, 1.382 mmol), Copper (I) iodide (13.11 mg, 0.069 mmol) and L-proline (15.8 mg, 0.138 mmol) were mixed in DMF and the purged with nitrogen. The contents were heated at 80° C. for 10 min. 4-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (208 mg, 1.04 mmol) was added, the reaction mixture was purged nitrogen and heated overnight at 140° C. The contents were cooled to RT and poured into water. The precipitate obtained was filtered, dried and purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.58 (d, 2H), 7.70 (d, 2H), 7.35 (s, 1H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.05 (m, 2H), 3.95 (s, 2H), 3.10 (q, 2H), 2.95 (m, 4H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.00 (s, 3H), 1.30 (t, 3H).

Example 232 Preparation of (E)-8-ethyl-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 270)

8-Ethyl-2-methyl-2,3,4,4a,5,9b-hexahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 0.9345 mmol), potassium phosphate (396 mg, 1.8 mmol), copper (I) iodide (21 mg, 0.18 mmol), L-proline (17 mg, 0.09345 mmol) and 4-(1-bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (277 mg, 1.40 mmol) were mixed in DMF and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The contents were cooled to RT and poured into water. The precipitate obtained was filtered, dried and purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.58 (d, 2H), 7.70 (d, 2H), 7.36 (s, 1H), 7.22 (s, 1H), 7.05 (m, 2H), 3.75 (s, 2H), 2.95 (m, 2H), 2.85 (m, 2H), 2.70 (q, 2H), 2.38 (s, 3H), 2.00 (s, 3H), 1.25 (t, 3H).

Example 233 Preparation of (E)-8-tert-butyl-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 271)

8-tert-Butyl-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (123 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol), L-proline (11.5 mg, 0.1 mmol) and potassium phosphate (212 mg, 1 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 4-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (107.83 mg, 0.55 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). The product was further purified by HPLC. Yield: 12 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.60 (d, 2H), 7.70 (d, 2H), 7.42 (d, 1H), 7.36 (s, 1H), 7.30 (dd, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 3.80 (m, 2H), 2.95 (m, 2H), 2.85 (m, 2H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.00 (s, 3H), 1.38 (s, 9H).

Example 234 Preparation of (E)-2-isopropyl-8-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 272)

2-Isopropyl-8-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (114 mg, 0.5 mmol), potassium phosphate (212 mg, 1 mmol), copper (I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol) and L-proline (11.5 mg, 0.1 mmol) were mixed in DMF and the contents were purged with nitrogen. 4-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (107.83 mg, 0.55 mmol) was added, the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen and heated overnight at 140° C. The contents were purged with nitrogen and heated overnight at 140° C. The contents were cooled to RT and poured into water. The precipitate obtained was filtered, dried and purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh, neutralized with aqueous ammonia) eluting with 0-4% MeOH-DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.60 (d, 2H), 7.70 (d, 2H), 7.45 (s, 1H), 7.40 (s, 1H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 7.05 (d, 1H), 4.50 (m, 2H), 3.80 (m, 3H), 3.10 (m, 2H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.00 (s, 3H), 1.40 (d, 6H).

Example 235 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2,3-dimethyl-5-(2-(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 273)

8-Chloro-2,3-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (117 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol), L-proline (11.5 mg, 0.1 mmol) and potassium phosphate (212 mg, 1 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 5-(2-Bromo-1-methyl-vinyl)-2-methyl-pyridine (107.83 mg, 0.55 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-30% EtOAc-Hexane. The product was further purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 9.0 (s, 1H), 8.10 (d, 1H), 7.50 (d, 1H), 7.40 (s, 1H), 7.22 (m, 1H), 7.08 (d, 1H), 7.0 (s, 1H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.18 (m, 1H), 4.05 (m, 1H), 3.30 (m, 1H), 2.90 (s, 3H), 2.80 (s, 3H), 2.70 (m, 1H), 2.0 (s, 3H), 1.50 (d, 3H).

Example 236 Preparation of (Z)-5-(2-(2,4-difluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 274)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(2-Bromo-1-methyl-vinyl)-2,4-difluoro-benzene (279 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-2% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC. Yield: 16 mg. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.10 (s, 1H), 7.0 (d, 1H), 6.90 (m, 2H), 6.70 (m, 2H), 6.58 (t, 1H), 3.60 (s, 2H), 2.65 (t, 2H), 2.50 (m, 5H), 2.40 (s, 3H), 2.22 (s, 3H).

Example 237 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2,3-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 275)

8-Chloro-2,3-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (117 mg, 0.5 mmol) and potassium phosphate (212 mg, 1 mmol) were mixed in DMF and the suspension was purged with nitrogen. The suspension was heated at 140° C. for 10 min. In a separate round bottomed flask, 4-(1-bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (107.83 mg, 0.55 mmol), L-proline (11.5 mg, 0.1 mmol) and Copper (I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol) were mixed in DMF, the suspension was purged with nitrogen, and heated at 90° C. for 5 min. at which point it became a clear solution. The contents in the two reaction flasks were mixed and the reaction mixture was heated overnight at 90° C. The contents were cooled to RT and poured into water The precipitate obtained was filtered, dried and purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh, neutralized with aqueous ammonia) eluting with 0-10% MeOH-DCM as eluent. Compound was further purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.60 (d, 2H), 7.70 (d, 2H), 7.45 (s, 1H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.10 (s, 2H), 4.05 (d, 1H), 3.80 (d, 1H), 3.10 (m, 1H), 2.95 (m, 1H), 2.65 (m, 1H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.0 (s, 3H), 1.30 (d, 3H).

Example 238 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-(2,4-difluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 276)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(2-Bromo-1-methyl-vinyl)-2,4-difluoro-benzene (279 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-2% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC. Yield: 14 mg. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.40 (m, 1H), 7.22 (s, 1H), 7.22 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 7.0 (d, 1H), 6.90 (m, 2H), 6.70 (s, 1H), 3.70 (s, 2H), 2.85 (m, 4H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.45 (s, 3H), 1.95 (s, 3H).

Example 239 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-(2,4-difluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 277)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (220 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol), L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 1-(2-Bromo-1-methyl-vinyl)-2,4-difluoro-benzene (279 mg, 1.2 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-2% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC. Yield: 12 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.58 (m, 2H), 7.40 (s, 1H), 7.14 (s, 1H), 7.12 (d, 1H), 7.05 (m, 2H), 3.70 (s, 2H), 2.95 (m, 2H), 2.85 (m, 2H), 2.40 (s, 3H), 1.82 (s, 3H).

Example 240 Preparation of (E)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-2-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 278)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (700 mg, 3.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide, L-proline (0.116 g, 0.7 mmol) and potassium phosphate (1.484 g, 7 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 2-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (1.03 g, 5.25 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.62 (d, 1H), 7.78 (t, 1H), 7.60 (s, 1H), 7.50 (d, 1H), 7.28 (m, 1H), 7.18 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 7.05 (d, 1H), 4.40 (s, 2H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 2.95 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.05 (s, 3H).

Example 241 Preparation of (E)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyrimidin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 279)

To a solution of 1-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyrimidin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (100 mg, 0.29 mmol) in DCM (2 mL) was added a drop of DMF and the solution was cooled to 0° C. Thionyl chloride (0.1 mL) diluted in 1 mL DCM was added dropwise at 0° C. and the reaction was stirred at 0° C. 30 min. and at RT for additional 2.5 h. The solvent was removed under reduced pressure and the residue was basified with ice cold 1N aqueous NaOH. The aqueous lager was extracted with EtOAc and the organic layer was washed with water and brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated. The residue was purified by HPLC to obtain the product as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 9.20 (s, 1H), 8.80 (d, 1H), 8.0 (s, 1H), 7.50 (d, 1H), 7.20 (s, 1H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 4.80 (d, 1H), 4.18 (d, 1H), 3.80 (m, 1H), 3.36 (m, 2H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 2.90 (m, 1H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.05 (s, 3H).

Example 242 Preparation of (E)-5-(3,3-dimethyl-2-(pyridin-4-yl)but-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 280)

2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (30 mg, 0.15 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide, L-proline (4 mg, 0.03 mmol) and potassium phosphate (63 mg, 0.29 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 4-(1-bromo-3,3-dimethylbut-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (43 mg, 0.18 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-7% MeOH-DCM. The product was further purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.21 (d, 2H), 7.15 (m, 3H), 7.05 (s, 1H), 6.94 (d, 1H), 6.80 (s, 1H), 3.90 (s, 2H), 3.18 (t, 2H), 2.90 (t, 2H), 2.70 (s, 3H), 2.36 (s, 3H), 1.30 (s, 9H).

Example 243 Preparation of (Z)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)but-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 281)

1-(1,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)butan-2-ol (0.5 g, 1.43 mmol) was dissolved in dry DCM (15 mL) and a drop of DMF was added. The solution was cooled to 0° C. and thionyl chloride (0.5 g, 4.29 mmol) diluted with dry DCM (2 mL) was added dropwise. Stirring was continued for 1 h at 0° C. and then at RT for 2 h. The solution was basified with saturated aqueous sodium bicarbonate and extracted with EtOAc (3×50 mL). The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.36 (d, 2H), 7.16 (s, 1H), 7.0 (d, 1H), 6.90 (d, 1H), 6.85 (d, 2H), 6.75 (s, 1H), 3.70 (s, 2H), 2.78 (t, 2H), 2.65 (q, 2H), 2.50 (s, 3H), 2.42 (m, 2H), 2.40 (s, 3H), 1.18 (t, 3H).

Example 244 Preparation of (Z)-8-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)but-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 282)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)butan-2-ol (0.2 g, 0.542 mmol) was dissolved in dry DCM (10 mL) and a drop of DMF was added. The solution was cooled to 0° C. and thionyl chloride (0.1 mL, 1.6 mmol) diluted with dry DCM (2 mL) was added dropwise. Stirring was continued for 1 h at 0° C. and then at RT for 2 h. The solution was basified with saturated aqueous sodium bicarbonate and extracted with EtOAc (3×50 mL). The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.36 (d, 2H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 6.98 (m, 2H), 6.82 (d, 2H), 6.70 (s, 1H), 3.60 (s, 2H), 2.70 (m, 4H), 2.50 (m, 5H), 1.20 (t, 3H).

Example 245 Preparation of (E)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)but-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 283)

1-(1,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)butan-2-ol (0.5 g, 1.43 mmol) was dissolved in dry DCM (15 mL) and a drop of DMF was added. The solution was cooled to 0° C. and thionyl chloride (0.5 g, 4.29 mmol) diluted with dry DCM (2 mL) was added dropwise. Stirring was continued for 1 h at 0° C. and then at RT for 2 h. The solution was basified with saturated aqueous sodium bicarbonate and extracted with EtOAc (3×50 mL). The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.65 (d, 2H), 7.40 (d, 2H), 7.20 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 7.0 (d, 1H), 6.80 (s, 1H), 3.70 (s, 2H), 2.90 (m, 2H), 2.80 (m, 2H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.45 (m, 5H), 0.9 (t, 3H).

Example 246 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)but-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 284)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)butan-2-ol (0.2 g, 0.542 mmol) was dissolved in dry DCM (10 mL) and a drop of DMF was added. The solution was cooled to 0° C. and thionyl chloride (0.1 mL, 1.6 mmol) diluted with dry DCM (2 mL) was added dropwise. Stirring was continued for 1 h at 0° C. and then at RT for 2 h. The solution was basified with saturated aqueous sodium bicarbonate and extracted with EtOAc (3×50 mL). The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.65 (d, 2H), 7.40 (m, 3H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 6.80 (s, 1H), 3.65 (s, 2H), 2.80 (m, 4H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.45 (m, 2H), 0.9 (t, 3H).

Example 247 Preparation of (E)-1,2,3,8-tetramethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 285)

2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-1,2,3,8-tetramethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (550 mg, 2 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Copper (I) iodide L-proline (46 mg, 0.4 mmol) and potassium phosphate (848 mg, 4 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. at RT. 4-(1-bromo-3,3-dimethylbut-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (294 mg, 3.0 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh). The product was further purified by HPLC. The free base was converted into oxalate salt by treatment of oxalic acid (1 equiv) in THF. Yield: 8 mg as the oxalate salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.60 (d, 2H), 7.70 (d, 2H), 7.35 (s, 1H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 4.50 (m, 1H), 4.0 (m, 1H), 3.10 (m, 1H), 2.90 (s, 3H), 2.80 (m, 1H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.0 (s, 3H), 1.76 (d, 3H), 1.50 (d, 3H).

Example 248 Preparation of (E)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyrazin-2-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 287)

To a solution of 1-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyrazin-2-yl)propan-2-ol (336 mg, 1.0 mmol) in DCM (8 mL) was added at 0° C. a solution of thionyl chloride (594 mg, 5 mmol) in DCM (8 mL). The reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 30 min., volatiles were evaporated under reduced pressure and the residue was dissolved in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (4 mL). KOH (392 mg, 7.0 mmol) was added and the reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 5 min. and at 100° C. for 30 min. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT, diluted with water and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, concentrated under reduced pressure and the residue purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 9.0 (d, 1H), 8.70 (s, 1H), 8.60 (d, 1H), 7.70 (s, 1H), 7.38 (s, 1H), 7.15 (m, 2H), 4.78 (d, 1H), 4.40 (d, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.25 (m, 2H), 3.20 (s, 3H), 2.50 (s, 3H), 2.10 (s, 3H).

Example 249 Preparation of (E)-3-(8-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-2(5H)-yl)propan-1-ol (Compound 288)

3-(3,4-Dihydro-8-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-2(5H)-yl)propan-1-ol (500 mg, 2.04 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (10 mL) and to this solution were added potassium phosphate (865 mg, 4.08 mmol), copper(I) iodide (38.76 mg, 0.204 mmol) and L-proline (46.92 mg, 0.408 mmol). The reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. and 4-(1-bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (600 mg, 3.06 mmol) in DMF (2 mL) was added dropwise. The reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen and heated overnight at 85° C. (prolonged heating was required some cases). DMF was evaporated; the residue was diluted with water and filtered. The solid was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh, neutralized by aq. ammonia) eluting with 0-10% MeOH-DCM. The compound was further purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, di-HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.70 (m, 2H), 7.98 (m, 2H), 7.56 (s, 1H), 7.38 (s, 1H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 4.0 (m, 1H), 3.78 (t, 2H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.50 (t, 2H), 3.40-3.20 (m, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.15 (m, 2H), 2.10 (s, 3H).

Example 250 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyrimidin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 289)

1-(8-Chloro-2-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-pyrimidin-4-yl-propan-2-ol (200 mg, 0.56 mmol) was dissolved in DCM (5 mL), and a drop of DMF was added. The solution was cooled to 0° C. and a solution of thionyl chloride (0.2 mL) in 1 mL DCM was added dropwise. The solution was stirred at RT for 30 min. and at RT for 2.5 h. Volatiles were evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was basified with ice cold aqueous 1N NaOH (10 mL) and the product was extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layer was washed with water and brine, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified by HPLC to obtain 14 mg of product as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 9.18 (s, 1H), 8.80 (d, 1H), 8.0 (s, 1H), 7.80 (d, 1H), 7.58 (s, 1H), 7.25 (m, 2H), 4.75 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.05 (s, 3H).

Example 251 Preparation of 4-(2-isopropyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (Compound 167)

Potassium tert-butoxide (0.098 g, 0.80 mmol) and trimethylsulfonium iodide (0.164 g, 0.8 mmol) were mixed at RT and stirred at 0° C. To this was added 2-methyl-1-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-1-one (0.100 g, 0.671 mmol) slowly. The reaction mixture was stirred at 0° C. for 15 min. and then warmed to and stirred at 70° C. for 1 h. The reaction mixture diluted with water and extracted with EtOAc (3 10 mL), organic layer dried on sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain 4-(2-isopropyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (0.1 g). ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.6 (d, 2H), 7.26 (d, 2H), 3.05 (d, 1H), 2.29 (septet, 1H), 2.26 (d, 1H), 1.65 (d, 6H).

Example 252 Preparation of 4-(2-ethyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (Compound 168)

A mixture of potassium tert-butoxide (0.098 g, 0.80 mmol) and trimethylsulfonium iodide (0.164 g, 0.8 mmol) was stirred at 0° C. To this was added 2-methyl-1-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-1-one (0.100 g, 0.671 mmol) slowly. The reaction mixture was stirred at 0° C. for 15 min. and then warmed to and stirred at 70° C. for 1 h. The reaction mixture was diluted with water and extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL), organic layer dried on sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain 4-(2-isopropyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (0.1 g). ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.19 (d, 2H), 7.26 (d, 2H), 3.05 (d, 1H), 2.71 (d, 1H), 2.28 (m, 1H), 1.80 (m, 1H), 0.97 (t, 3H).

Example 253 Preparation of 4-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (Compound 169)

Trimethylsulfonium iodide (43.8 g, 210 mmol) was dissolved in 100 mL DMF and NaH (19.8 g, 495 mmol) was added. The reaction mixture was stirred for 5 min. and a solution of 4-acetylpyridine (20 g, 165 mmol) in 20 mL DMSO was added dropwise at RT. After the addition was complete, reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h after which it was poured into ice water. The product was extracted with EtOAc, organic layer was washed with water, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure. Yield: 21 g.

Example 253A

A solution of potassium tert-butoxide (2.22 g, 19.83 mmol) in dry THF (20 ml) was stirred at 0° C. for 10 min (ice-ethanol bath). Trimethylsulfonium iodide (4.045 g, 19.83 mmoL) was added portionwise at 0° C. within 15 min. The reaction mixture was stirred at 0° C. for 30 min. 4-acetyl pyridine (2 g, 16.52 mmol) was added dropwise at 0° C. within 15 min. The reaction mixture stirred at 0° C. for 30 min and at RT for 3-4 h. Gradual conversion of reactant into product is seen during this time as monitored by NMR (TLC stained with KMnO₄ solution was also indicative of the reaction progress). The reaction mixture was diluted with DCM, filtered through Celite, and the filtrate concentrated under reduced pressure (water bath temp 35° C., pressure 20 mbar) to obtain product (2.1 g dark red oil that was pure by NMR). Ice water was added and the product was partitioned with DCM, the organic layer separated, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure. Yield 1.6 g light yellow oil. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.55 (d, 2H), 7.3 (d, 2H), 3.05 (d, 1H), 2.85 (d, 1H), 1.75 (s, 3H).

Example 254 Preparation of 4-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)pyrimidine Compound (170)

Trimethylsulfonium iodide (3.34 g, 16.3 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (20 mL) and stirred at RT for 5 min. Sodium hydride (600 mg, 25 mmol) was added portionwise at the same temperature and stirred for 15 min. 4-Acetyl pyrimidine (1 g, 8.1 mmol) in 0.5 mL DMSO was added dropwise and the reaction mixture stirred for 1 h. After completion of reaction, the mixture was poured into ice-cold water and extracted with Ether (3×). The combined organic layer was washed with water several times followed by brine, and dried over sodium sulfate, then evaporated to provide 600 mg of 4-(2-Methyl-oxiranyl)-pyrimidine. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 9.15 (s, 1H), 8.7 (d, 1H), 7.35 (d, 1H), 2.95 (d, 1H), 2.88 (d, 1H), 1.8 (s, 3H).

Example 255 Preparation of (E)-8-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2-(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 291)

1-(2-(2,2,2-Trifluoroethyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-8-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (200 mg, 0.4 mmol) was dissolved in thionyl chloride (2 mL), and stirred for 2 h at RT. The reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure; the residue was cooled in ice water and basified with saturated aqueous NaHCO₃. The product was extracted with EtOAc and organic layer was washed with water, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified by HPLC. Yield: 195 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.70 (d, 2H), 8.10 (d, 2H), 7.70 (s, 1H), 7.22 (s, 1H), 7.05 (m, 2H), 3.95 (s, 2H), 3.40 (m, 2H), 3.10 (m, 2H), 2.82 (m, 2H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.12 (s, 3H).

Example 256 Preparation of (E)-2-cyclopropyl-8-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 292)

1-(2-Cyclopropyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-8-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (100 mg, 0.27 mmol) was dissolved in thionyl chloride (1 mL), and stirred for 1-2 h at RT. The reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure; the residue was cooled in ice water and basified with saturated aqueous NaHCO₃. The product was extracted with EtOAc and organic layer was washed with water, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified by HPLC. Yield: 100 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.80 (d, 2H), 8.30 (d, 2H), 7.78 (s, 1H), 7.38 (s, 1H), 7.18 (m, 2H), 4.70 (m, 2H), 3.90 (m, 2H), 3.22 (m, 2H), 3.15 (m, 1H), 2.45 (s, 3H), 2.16 (s, 3H), 1.20 (m, 2H), 1.10 (m, 2H).

Example 257 Preparation of (E)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyrimidin-5-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 293)

2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (100 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL), potassium phosphate (212 mg, 1 mmol), copper(I) iodide (9 mg, 0.05 mmol) and L-proline (11 mg, 0.1 mmol) was added. 5-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyrimidine (98 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL) and added dropwise. Nitrogen was purged for 2 min. and the reaction mixture was heated at 85° C. overnight (prolonged heating was required in some cases). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure and water was added to the residue obtained. Compound was extracted with EtOAc (3×25 mL), the organic layer was washed with water (3×25 mL), dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified by HPLC. Yield: 7 mg as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 9.18 (s, 1H), 9.08 (s, 2H), 7.35 (s, 1H), 7.24 (s, 1H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 4.78 (m, 1H), 3.30 (m, 1H), 3.85 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.05 (s, 3H).

Example 258 Preparation of (E)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(thiophen-2-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound 294)

2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (50 mg, 0.25 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL), potassium phosphate (106 mg, 0.5 mmol), copper (I) iodide (4.75 mg, 0.025 mmol) and L-proline (5.75 mg, 0.05 mmol) were added. 2-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)thiophene (55 mg, 0.275 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL) and added dropwise to the reaction mixture. The reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen for 2 min. and heated at 85° C. overnight. DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure and water was added to the residue. The product was extracted with EtOAc (3×25 mL), the organic layer was washed with water (3×25 mL), dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified by HPLC. Yield: 0.4 mg as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.30-7.20 (m, 3H), 7.10 (m, 3H), 7.0 (s, 1H), 4.78 (m, 1H), 4.15 (m, 1H), 3.82 (m, 1H), 3.30 (m, 2H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 2.90 (m, 1H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 1.98 (s, 3H).

Example 259 Preparation of 1-cyclohexyl-2-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl-1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethanol (Compound No. 171)

Activated magnesium turnings (480 mg, 20 g/atom) and 2-3 crystals of iodine were stirred under anhydrous conditions. The excess of iodine was removed by heating with a heat gun. The magnesium turnings were now yellow in color. To this was added diethyl ether (15 mL) at 0° C. and stirred for 15 min. (until the color of the magnesium becomes white). To this was added cyclohexyl bromide (2.5 mL, 20 mmol) dropwise with constant stirring. The reaction mixture was stirred until a dark grey-colored solution was obtained. Into a separate flask was placed 2-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethanone (168 mg, 5 mmol) in THF under anhydrous conditions. The solution of the prepared cyclohexylmagnesium bromide (5 mL) was added dropwise. After addition, the mixture was allowed to come to RT and stirred at RT for 2 h. The reaction was monitored by TLC and NMR. The reaction was quenched with ice water and the product extracted into EtOAc. The organic extracts were concentrated and the residue purified by silica gel column chromatography (#100-200 mesh) using 0-3% MeOH:DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.25 (m, 2H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 6.92 (m, 1H), 6.80 (m, 3H), 4.60 (m, 1H), 4.65 (m, 1H), 4.22 (m, 2H), 3.70 (m, 1H), 3.40 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.70 (m, 1H), 2.38 (s, 3H), 2.20 (m, 2H), 1.80 (m, 2H), 1.70 (m, 3H), 1.50-1.20 (m, 4H).

Example 260 Preparation of 2-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethanol (Compound No. 172)

Activated magnesium turnings (480 mg, 20 g/atom) and 2-3 crystals of iodine were stirred under anhydrous conditions. The excess of iodine was removed by heating with a heat gun. The magnesium turnings were now yellow in color. To this was added diethyl ether (15 mL) at 0° C. and stirred for 15 min. (until the color of the magnesium becomes white). To this was added cyclopentyl bromide (480 mg, 20 g/atom) dropwise with constant stirring. The reaction mixture was stirred until a dark grey-colored solution was obtained. Into a separate flask was placed the starting material (168 mg, 5 mmol) in THF under anhydrous conditions. The solution of the prepared cyclopentylmagnesium bromide (5 mL) was added dropwise. After addition, the mixture was allowed to come to RT and stirred at RT for 2 h. The reaction was monitored by TLC and NMR. The reaction was quenched with ice water and the product extracted into EtOAc. The organic extracts were concentrated and the residue purified by silica gel column chromatography (#100-200 mesh) using 0-3% MeOH:DCM as eluent. (Note: Desired compound not formed but reduction of keto group occurs). ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.55 (m, 3H), 7.18 (m, 3H), 6.95 (d, 1H), 4.85 (s, 1H), 4.30 (m, 2H), 4.15 (m, 2H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.10 (m, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H).

Example 261 Preparation of 1-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 173)

A flask was charged with sodium hydride 60% (461 mg, 1.15 mmol) in DMF and stirred at RT for 10 min. The carboline (0.76 g, 3.8 mmol) was added and the mixture stirred at RT for 1 h. 2-(3-Fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)-2-methyloxirane (1 g, 5.4 mmol) was added and the mixture stirred at RT overnight. Ice water was added and the mixture extracted with EtOAc (3×). The combined organic layers were washed with water (4×) and concentrated, followed by purification of the product on silica gel (#100-200 mesh) using 0-5% MeOH:DCM as eluent. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.30 (m, 3H), 7.18 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 6.90 (d, 1H), 4.30 (m, 2H), 4.18 (d, 1H), 4.05 (d, 1H), 3.80 (s, 3H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.0 (m, 2H), 2.80 (s, 3H), 2.35 (s, 3H), 1.70 (m, 1H), 1.40 (s, 3H).

Example 262 Preparation of 1-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 174)

A flask was charged with sodium hydride 60% (0.803 mg, 20.12 mmol) in DMF and stirred at RT for 10 min. The carboline (1.28 g, 6.4 mmol) was added and the mixture stirred at RT for 1 h. 2-(4-Methoxyphenyl)-2-methyloxirane (1.5 g, 9.14 mmol) was added and the mixture stirred at RT overnight. Ice water was added and the mixture extracted with EtOAc (3×). The combined organic layers were washed with water (4x) and concentrated, followed by purification of the product on silica gel (#100-200 mesh) using 0-5% MeOH:DCM as eluent. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.40 (d, 2H), 7.35 (m, 1H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 6.90 (m, 3H), 4.30 (m, 1H), 4.20 (d, 1H), 4.0 (m, 1H), 3.80 (s, 3H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.0 (m, 4H), 2.90 (s, 3H), 1.40 (d, 3H).

Example 263 Preparation of 1-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)butan-2-ol (Compound No. 175)

2-(2,8-Dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethanone (168 mg, 5 mmol) was dissolved in 10 mL anhydrous THF. Ethyl magnesium bromide (1.5 mL, 0.0015 mol) was then added dropwise at RT under nitrogen. The reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. The reaction was monitored by LCMS. On completion of the reaction, water (3 mL) was added to the reaction mixture and the product extracted with EtOAc (3×). The combined organic layers were washed with water, dried over sodium sulfate, and the solvent evaporated under reduced pressure to obtain the crude product, which was purified by HPLC. The pure compound was isolated as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.38 (m, 2H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 7.10 (m, 1H), 7.0 (m, 2H), 6.85 (d, 1H), 4.60 (m, 1H), 4.30 (m, 2H), 3.75 (m, 1H), 3.42 (m, 1H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.90 (m, 2H), 2.42 (d, 1H), 2.38 (s, 3H), 2.20 (m, 1H), 1.80 (m, 2H), 0.8 (t, 3H).

Example 264 Preparation of 2-(8-chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-1-cyclobutyl-1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethanol (Compound No. 177)

8-Chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.5 g, 6 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (15 mL) and stirred for 5 min. Sodium hydride (720 mg, 10 mmol) was then added portionwise under nitrogen. This was followed by addition of 2-cyclobutyl-2-(4-fluorophenyl)oxirane (1.906 g, 18 mmol) at RT, and the reaction mixture was stirred for 18 h. After completion of reaction, the reaction mixture was poured into ice water and the product extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer was washed with water, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure to give the crude product which was purified by silica gel (#100-200 mesh) column chromatography using 1% MeOH in DCM as eluent. The pure compound was converted into the oxalate salt. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.30 (d, 1H), 7.20 (m, 2H), 6.95 (m, 4H), 4.20 (m, 1H), 4.0 (m, 1H), 3.80 (m, 2H), 3.10 (m, 1H), 2.70 (m, 4H), 2.50 (s, 3H), 2.20 (m, 2H), 2.0 (d, 1H), 1.80 (t, 2H), 1.70 (m, 1H).

Example 265 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)hexan-2-ol (Compound No. 178)

8-Chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.3 g, 5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (10 mL) and stirred for 5 min. Sodium hydride (709 mg, 17.7 mmol) was then added portionwise under nitrogen. This was followed by addition of 2-butyl-2-(4-fluorophenyl)oxirane (3.4 g, 17.7 mmol) at RT and the reaction mixture was stirred for 18 h. After completion of reaction, the reaction mixture was poured into ice water and the product extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer was washed with water, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure to give the crude product which was purified by silica gel (#100-200 mesh) column chromatography using 1% MeOH in DCM as eluent. The pure compound was converted into the oxalate salt. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.30 (m, 3H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 6.95 (m, 3H), 4.20 (m, 1H), 4.0 (m, 1H), 3.62 (m, 2H), 2.70 (m, 3H), 2.50 (s, 3H), 2.20 (m, 1H), 2.0 (m, 1H), 1.80 (m, 1H), 1.22 (m, 3H), 1.0 (m, 1H), 0.80 (t, 3H).

Example 266 Preparation of 2-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-1-(pyridin-4-yl)ethanol (Compound No. 180)

Sodium hydride (2.4 g, 100 mmol) was washed with hexane and dried under vacuum. To this was added DMF (15 mL) and cooled to 0° C. Then to this was added 2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1 h-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (4 g, 20 mmol) and the mixture stirred at 0° C. for 30 min. Then 4-oxirannyl-pyridine (2.90 g, 23.96 mmol) was dissolved in 5 mL DMF and added dropwise to the mixture, which was then left stirred at RT overnight. The reaction was monitored by TLC. The reaction mixture was poured into ice water and extracted with EtOAc (3×). The combined organic layer was washed with water, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated. The resultant solid material was washed with hexane and crystallized from EtOH and ether. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.70 (d, 2H), 7.70 (d, 2H), 7.38 (m, 1H), 7.20 (s, 1H), 6.90 (d, 1H), 5.05 (m, 1H), 4.58 (m, 1H), 4.30 (m, 1H), 4.20 (m, 2H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.20 (m, 4H), 2.90 (s, 1H), 2.38 (s, 3H).

Example 267 Preparation of 1-(8-fluoro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 181)

A flask was charged with 6-fluoro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.9 g, 4.5 mmol) in DMF (20 mL) and stirred for 5 min. To this was added NaH (60% in hexane) (1.16 g, 27.9 mmol) and stirred at RT for 10 min., followed by 4-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (2.5 g, 18.6 mmol) and stirred at RT for 16 h. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC. The mixture was poured into ice water and filtered. The filtrate was washed with water and concentrated. The residue was recrystallized from ether to get pure product. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.78 (d, 2H), 8.0 (d, 2H), 7.40 (s, 1H), 7.20 (d, 1H), 6.80 (m, 1H), 6.10 (m, 1H), 4.50 (m, 1H), 4.30 (m, 2H), 4.20 (m, 1H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 2.90 (s, 3H), 1.60 (s, 3H).

Example 268 Preparation of 1-(6-chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 182)

A flask was charged with 6-chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.0 g, 4.5 mmol) in DMF (10 mL) and stirred for 5 min. To this was added NaH (60% in hexane) (220 mg, 6.8 mmol) and stirred at RT for 10 min., followed by 4-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (1.08 g, 9 mmol) and stirred at RT for 16 h. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC. The mixture was poured into ice water and filtered. The filtrate was washed with water and concentrated. The residue was recrystallized from ether to get pure product. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.70 (d, 2H), 7.90 (d, 2H), 7.40 (m, 1H), 7.0 (m, 2H), 6.0 (m, 1H), 4.80 (m, 1H), 4.60 (m, 2H), 4.25 (m, 2H), 3.80 (m, 2H), 2.90 (s, 3H), 1.60 (s, 3H).

Example 269 Preparation of 2-(8-chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-1-(pyridin-4-yl)ethanol (Compound No. 183)

Sodium hydride (2.72 g, 113.33 mmol) was washed with hexane and dried under vacuum. To this was added DMF (15 mL) and the mixture cooled to 0° C. 8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (5 g, 22.72 mmol) was added and the mixture stirred at 0° C. for 30 min., followed by 4-oxirannyl-pyridine (3.3 g, 27.27 mmol) dissolved in 5 mL DMF added dropwise. The reaction mixture was stirred at RT overnight. The reaction was monitored by TLC. The reaction mixture was poured into ice water and the product extracted into EtOAc (3×). The combined organic layers were washed with water, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated. The resultant solid material was washed with hexane and crystallized from EtOH and ether. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.80 (d, 2H), 8.18 (d, 2H), 7.50 (s, 1H), 7.30 (m, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 5.30 (m, 1H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.50 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 2H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.40 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H).

Example 270 Preparation of 1-(7-chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 184)

A flask was charged with 7-chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.2 g, 5.0 mmol) in DMF (10 mL) and stirred for 5 min. NaH (60% in hexane) (654 mg, 16 mmol) was added and the mixture stirred at RT for 10 min. Then 4-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (1.35 g, 10 mmol) was added and the mixture stirred at RT for 16 h. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC. The reaction mixture was poured into ice water and filtered. The filtrate was washed with water and concentrated. The residue was recrystallized from ether to get pure product. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.70 (d, 2H), 7.95 (d, 2H), 7.50 (m, 1H), 7.40 (m, 1H), 7.0 (t, 1H), 6.10 (m, 1H), 4.60 (m, 1H), 4.42-4.20 (m, 3H), 3.30 (m, 3H), 2.90 (s, 3H), 1.60 (d, 3H).

Example 271 Preparation of 1-(6-fluoro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 185)

A flask was charged with 6-fluoro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.2 g, 5.8 mmol) in DMF (10 mL) and stirred for 5 min. NaH (60% in hexane) (705 mg, 17.6 mmol) was added and the mixture stirred at RT for 10 min. Then 4-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (1.56 g, 11.6 mmol) was added and the mixture stirred at RT for 16 h. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC. The reaction mixture was poured into ice water and filtered. The filtrate was washed with water and concentrated. The residue was recrystallized from ether to get pure product. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.70 (d, 2H), 8.0 (d, 2H), 7.40 (m, 1H), 7.20 (d, 1H), 6.85 (m, 1H), 6.10 (m, 1H), 4.58 (d, 1H), 4.38 (m, 2H), 4.22 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 3H), 2.90 (s, 3H), 1.60 (d, 3H).

Example 272 Preparation of 1-(2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-propan-2-ol (Compound No. 186)

2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (740 mg, 3.9 mmol) was dissolved in DMF and the mixture stirred for 5 min. NaH (60% in oil) (468 mg, 11.7 mmol) was added and the mixture stirred for 10 min., followed by 4-(oxiran-2-yl)pyridine (1.0 g, 7.9 mmol) and the mixture stirred at RT for 3 h. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC. The reaction mixture was poured into ice water and filtered. The filtrate was washed with water and concentrated. The residue was recrystallized from ether to get pure product. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.70 (d, 2H), 8.20 (d, 2H), 7.40 (m, 1H), 7.10 (m, 1H), 7.0 (m, 2H), 4.70 (d, 1H), 4.45 (m, 2H), 4.38 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.45 (m, 2H), 3.40 (m, 1H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 1.70 (d, 3H).

Example 273 Preparation of 4-(1-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-hydroxypropan-2-yl)phenol (Compound No. 187)

To a stirred solution of 1-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)propan-2-ol (0.145 g, 0.39 mmol) in DCM (10 mL) at −78° C. was added borontribromide (0.293 g in 5 mL DCM). The reaction mixture was stirred at −78° C. for 30 min. and then at 25° C. for 1 h. The solution was poured into ice water, saturated NaHCO₃ was added, and the mixture extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, and the solvent was removed under reduced pressure. The crude product was purified by column chromatography (silica gel, 0-75% MeOH:DCM) to give the product as an off white solid, 20 mg. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.25 (d, 1H), 7.10 (m, 3H), 6.98 (d, 1H), 6.70 (d, 2H), 4.109 (m, 2H), 3.82 (m, 2H), 2.80 (m, 2H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.38 (m, 2H), 1.60 (s, 3H).

Example 274 Preparation of 1-(8-methoxy-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 188)

A flask was charged with 8-methoxy-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1.5 g, 6.9 mmol) in DMF (15 mL) and stirred for 5 min. To this was added NaH (60% in hexane) (828 mg, 20 mmol) and the mixture stirred at RT for 10 min. 4-(2-Methyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (1.89 g, 13.8 mmol) was added and the mixture stirred at RT for 16 h. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC. The reaction mixture was poured into ice water and filtered. The filtrate was washed with water and concentrated. The residue was recrystallized from ether to get pure product. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, di-HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.75 (m, 2H), 8.0 (dd, 2H), 7.30 (d, 1H), 6.90 (s, 1H), 6.60 (t, 1H), 6.10 (bs, 1H), 4.50 (m, 1H), 4.30 (m, 2H), 4.18 (m, 1H), 3.80 (s, 3H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.25 (m, 1H), 2.10 (m, 1H), 2.95 (s, 3H), 1.60 (s, 3H).

Example 275 Preparation of 1-(7,8-dichloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 189)

A flask was charged with 7,8-dichloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,4a,5,9b-hexahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1 g, 3.9 mmol) in DMF (10 mL) and stirred for 5 min. To this was added NaH (60% in hexane) (470 mg, 11.7 mmol) and the mixture stirred at RT for 10 min. 4-(2-Methyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (795 mg, 5.8 mmol) was added and the mixture stirred at RT for 16 h. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC. The reaction mixture was poured into ice water and filtered. The filtrate was washed with water and concentrated. The residue was recrystallized from ether to get pure product. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, formate salt) δ (ppm): 8.38 (d, 2H), 7.56 (s, 1H), 7.48 (d, 2H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 4.60 (m, 2H), 4.30 (m, 2H), 3.58 (m, 1H), 3.50 (m, 1H), 3.35 (m, 1H), 3.10 (m, 1H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 1.70 (s, 3H).

Example 276 Preparation of 1-(8,9-dichloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 190)

A flask was charged with 7,8-dichloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,4a,5,9b-hexahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1 g, 3.9 mmol) in DMF (10 mL) and stirred for 5 min. To this was added NaH (60% in hexane) (470 mg, 11.7 mmol) and the mixture stirred at RT for 10 min. 4-(2-Methyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (795 mg, 5.8 mmol) was added and the mixture stirred at RT for 16 h. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC. The reaction mixture was poured into ice water and filtered. The filtrate was washed with water and concentrated. The residue was recrystallized from ether to get pure product. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, formate salt) δ (ppm): 8.40 (m, 2H), 7.50 (d, 2H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 4.60 (m, 2H), 4.35 (m, 2H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.16 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 1.62 (s, 3H).

Example 277 Preparation of 1-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2H)-yl)-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 191)

A flask was charged with sodium hydride 60% (0.803 mg, 20.12 mmol) in DMF and stirred at RT for 10 min. To this was added the carboline (1.28 g, 6.4 mmol) and again stirred at RT for 1 h. 2-(4-Methoxyphenyl)-2-methyloxirane (1.5 g, 9.14 mmol) was added and the mixture stirred at RT overnight. Ice water was added and the mixture extracted with EtOAc (3×). The combined organic layers were washed with water (4×) and concentrated. The product was purified on silica gel (#100-200 mesh) using 0-5% MeOH:DCM as eluent. This compound was separated from its enantiomer Compound No. 192, by chiral HPLC. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.40 (d, 2H), 7.35 (d, 1H), 7.15 (s, 1H), 6.86 (m, 3H), 4.30 (m, 2H), 4.18 (d, 1H), 4.0 (d, 1H), 3.80 (s, 3H), 3.40 (m, 3H), 2.90 (m, 1H), 2.82 (s, 3H), 2.38 (s, 3H), 1.40 (s, 3H).

Example 278 Preparation of 1-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 192)

A flask was charged with sodium hydride 60% (0.803 mg, 20.12 mmol) in DMF and stirred at RT for 10 min. To this was added the carboline (1.28 g, 6.4 mmol) and again stirred at RT for 1 h. 2-(4-Methoxyphenyl)-2-methyloxirane (1.5 g, 9.14 mmol) was added and the mixture stirred at RT overnight. Ice water was added and the mixture extracted with EtOAc (3×). The combined organic layers were washed with water (4×) and concentrated. The product was purified on silica gel (#100-200 mesh) using 0-5% MeOH:DCM as eluent. This compound was separated from its enantiomer Compound No. 191, by chiral HPLC. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.40 (d, 2H), 7.35 (d, 1H), 7.15 (s, 1H), 6.86 (m, 3H), 4.30 (m, 2H), 4.18 (d, 1H), 4.0 (d, 1H), 3.80 (s, 3H), 3.40 (m, 3H), 2.90 (m, 1H), 2.82 (s, 3H), 2.38 (s, 3H), 1.40 (s, 3H).

Example 279 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-3-methyl-2-(pyridin-4-yl)butan-2-ol (Compound No. 193)

To a stirred solution of sodium hydride (0.261 g, 50-60%) in dry DMF (5 mL) at 0° C. was added 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.3 g). The reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 30 min. To the reaction mixture was added 4-(2-isopropyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (0.288 g in 2 mL DMF) at RT. After 12 h stirring, the reaction mixture was diluted with ice-water and extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The combined organic layers were washed with brine, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and evaporated. The crude product was triturated with diethyl ether to obtain pure product, 90 mg). ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.30 (d, 2H), 7.30 (m, 3H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 6.82 (d, 1H), 4.50 (m, 2H), 4.22 (m, 2H), 3.42 (m, 1H), 3.30 (m, 2H), 2.80 (s, 3H), 2.62 (m, 1H), 1.78 (m, 1H), 1.15 (d, 3H), 0.6 (d, 3H).

Example 280 Preparation of 1-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-3-methyl-2-(pyridin-4-yl)butan-2-ol (Compound No. 194)

To a stirred solution of sodium hydride (0.192 g, 50-60%) in dry DMF (5 mL) at 0° C. was added 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.3 g). The reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 30 min. To the reaction mixture was added 4-(2-isopropyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (0.317 g in 2 mL DMF) at RT. After 12 h stirring, the reaction mixture was diluted with ice-water and extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The combined organic layers were washed with brine, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and evaporated. The crude product was purified by column chromatography (silica gel 100-200 mesh, 5% MeOH:DCM) to obtain pure product (50 mg). ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.30 (d, 2H), 7.30 (d, 2H), 7.15 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 6.82 (d, 1H), 4.40 (m, 2H), 4.22 (m, 2H), 3.4 (m, 2H), 3.20 (m, 1H), 2.80 (s, 3H), 2.62 (m, 1H), 2.5 (m, 1H), 2.25 (s, 3H), 1.15 (d, 3H), 0.6 (d, 3H).

Example 281 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)butan-2-ol (Compound No. 195)

A flask was charged with sodium hydride (0.581 g, 50-60%) in dry DMF (10 mL) at 0° C. and to it was added 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.8 g). The reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 30 min., and then to this was added 4-(2-ethyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (0.758 g) dissolved in DMF (2 mL), stirred at RT for 12 h. The reaction mixture was diluted with ice-water and extracted with EtOAc (3×30 mL). The combined organic layers were washed with brine, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and evaporated. The crude product was triturated with diethyl ether to obtain the desired compound. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.45 (d, 2H), 7.40 (m, 4H), 7.0 (d, 1H), 4.38 (m, 1H), 4.22 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.35 (m, 2H), 3.10 (m, 2H), 2.90 (s, 3H), 2.10 (m, 2H), 0.6 (t, 3H).

Example 282 Preparation of 1-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)butan-2-ol (Compound No. 196)

A flask was charged with sodium hydride (0.640 g, 50-60%) in dry DMF (10 mL) at 0° C. and to this was added 2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,4a,5,9b-hexahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.8 g). The mixture was stirred at RT for 30 min. and then 4-(2-ethyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (0.834 g) dissolved in DMF (2 mL) was added, stirred at RT for 12 h. The reaction mixture was diluted with ice-water and extracted with EtOAc (3×30 mL). The combined organic layers were washed with brine, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and evaporated. The crude product was triturated with diethyl ether to obtain the desired compound. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.45 (d, 2H), 7.42 (d, 2H), 7.30 (d, 1H), 7.10 (s, 1H), 6.82 (d, 1H), 4.30 (d, 1H), 4.18 (d, 1H), 3.60 (s, 2H), 3.50 (m, 2H), 3.38 (m, 1H), 3.0 (m, 2H), 2.90 (s, 3H), 3.32 (s, 3H), 2.10 (m, 1H), 0.6 (t, 3H).

Example 283 Preparation of 1-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-pyrimidin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 197)

Sodium hydride (200 mg, 8.33 mmol) was washed with hexane and dried under vacuum. DMF (4 mL) was added, resulting in a suspension. The carboline (400 mg, 2 mmol) in 2 mL DMF was added dropwise and stirred for 30 min. at RT. 4-(2-Methyl-oxiranyl)-pyrimidine (490 mg, 3.60 mmol) in 2 mL DMF was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was stirred overnight at RT. After the completion of reaction, the reaction mixture was quenched with ice-cold water and extracted three times with EtOAc. The combined organic layers were washed with water several times followed by brine, and then dried over sodium sulfate. The solvent was evaporated and the residue washed with hexane and crystallized from ether-DCM and hexane to obtain 350 mg of desired product. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 9.10 (s, 1H), 8.50 (d, 1H), 7.50 (d, 1H), 7.10 (s, 1H), 6.95 (d, 1H), 6.80 (d, 1H), 4.40 (m, 4H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.40 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 1H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.50 (s, 3H), 1.60 (s, 3H).

Example 284 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pryrimidin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 198)

Sodium hydride (275 mg, 11.45 mmol) was washed with hexane and dried under vacuum. DMF (4 mL) was added, resulting in a suspension. 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2-methyl-8-chloro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (500 mg, 2.27 mmol) dissolved in DMF (2 mL) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture stirred for 30 min. at RT. 4-(2-Methyl-oxiranyl)-pyrimidine (620 mg, 4.55 mmol) dissolved in DMF (2 mL) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was stirred overnight at RT. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC. The mixture was quenched with ice-cold water and the mixture extracted with EtOAc (3×30 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with water (4×20 mL) followed by brine (1×20 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and the solvent evaporated under vacuum. The residue was washed with hexane and crystallized from ether: DCM and hexane. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 9.10 (s, 1H), 8.50 (d, 1H), 7.50 (d, 1H), 7.36 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 6.95 (d, 1H), 4.40 (m, 4H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.40 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 1H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 1.60 (s, 3H).

Example 285 Preparation of 1-(8-chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyrazin-2-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 199)

The target compound was prepared according to General Method 3. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.65 (s, 1H), 8.55 (s, 1H), 8.50 (d, 1H), 7.42 (s, 1H), 7.05 (d, 1H), 6.95 (d, 1H), 4.40 (m, 4H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 3.0 (m, 2H), 2.90 (s, 3H), 1.58 (s, 3H).

Example 286 Preparation of 1-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyrazin-2-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 200)

The target compound was prepared according to General Method 3. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) 6 (ppm): 8.65 (s, 1H), 8.55 (s, 1H), 8.50 (d, 1H), 7.10 (s, 1H), 6.90 (d, 1H), 6.78 (d, 1H), 4.30 (m, 4H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 3.0 (m, 2H), 2.90 (s, 3H), 2.30 (s, 3H), 1.50 (s, 3H).

Example 287 Preparation of 1-(8-methyl-2-(2,2,2-trifluoro ethyl)-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 341)

The target compound was prepared according to General Method 3. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.65 (d, 2H), 8.05 (d, 2H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 6.78 (d, 1H), 4.25 (m, 2H), 4.0 (s, 2H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.16 (m, 2H), 2.85 (m, 2H), 2.30 (s, 3H), 1.58 (s, 3H).

Example 288 Preparation of 1-(2-cyclopropyl-8-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 342)

The target compound was prepared according to General Method 3. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.62 (d, 2H), 8.18 (d, 2H), 7.20 (s, 1H), 6.95 (d, 1H), 6.80 (d, 1H), 4.50 (m, 1H), 4.40 (s, 2H), 4.0 (m, 1H), 3.70 (m, 1H), 3.30 (m, 3H), 3.10 (m, 1H), 2.36 (s, 3H), 1.78 (s, 3H), 1.20 (m, 4H).

Example 289 Preparation of 1-(6-methoxy-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 343)

The target compound was prepared according to General Method 3. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.60 (m, 2H), 7.95 (m, 2H), 6.95 (m, 2H), 6.50 (m, 1H), 4.65 (m, 2H), 4.30 (m, 2H), 3.90 (m, 2H), 3.80 (s, 3H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 1.70 (s, 3H).

Example 290 Preparation of 1-(7-isopropyl-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 344)

The target compound was prepared according to General Method 3. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.60 (d, 2H), 8.05 (d, 2H), 7.25 (d, 1H), 6.90 (d, 1H), 6.78 (s, 1H), 4.65 (m, 1H), 4.42 (s, 2H), 4.30 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.30 (m, 1H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.85 (m, 1H), 1.80 (s, 3H), 1.18 (m, 6H).

Example 291 Preparation of 2-(pyridin-4-yl)-1-(2,3,8-trimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 345)

The target compound was prepared according to General Method 3. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.62 (d, 2H), 8.10 (d, 2H), 7.18 (s, 1H), 6.90 (m, 1H), 6.80 (m, 1H), 4.62 (m, 2H), 4.40 (m, 3H), 4.05 (m, 1H), 3.80 (m, 1H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 2.38 (s, 3H), 1.75 (d, 3H), 1.70-1.50 (m, 3H).

Example 292 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyrimidin-5-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 346)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(pyrimidin-5-yl)propan-2-ol (1 g, 2.80 mmol, 1 eq.) was refluxed with 25% sulfuric acid (7 ml) for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to 5 deg C. in ice-water bath. KOH (15% aqueous solution) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture till pH of 9-10 was achieved. The reaction mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with water (10 ml) followed by brine, dried over sodium sulfate and evaporated under vacuum. The crude product was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using a gradient of MeOH-EtOAc (0-10%) followed by preparative HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 9.20 (s, 1H), 9.10 (s, 2H), 7.58 (s, 1H), 7.30-7.20 (m, 3H), 4.78 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.0 (s, 3H).

Example 293 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-cyclohexylprop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 320)

2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (100 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL) and potassium phosphate (212.4 mg, 1 mmol), copper(I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol) and L-proline (11.51 mg, 0.1 mmol) was added in to it. (1-bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)cyclohexane (121.8 mg, 0.6 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL) and added dropwise. Nitrogen was purged for 2 min. and the reaction mixture was heated at 85° C. overnight (prolonged heating was required in some cases). DMF was evaporated and water was added. The precipitate obtained was filtered and purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using 0-3% MeOH:DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase purification. Yield: 11 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.24 (s, 1H), 7.06 (d, 1H), 7.0 (d, 1H), 6.25 (s, 1H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.35 (m, 1H), 3.82 (m, 1H), 3.48 (m, 1H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 3.04 (m, 2H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.10 (m, 1H), 1.90 (s, 3H), 1.65 (m, 2H), 1.60-1.40 (m, 5H), 1.20-1.0 (m, 3H).

Example 294 Preparation of (E)-2-(8-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-2(5H)-yl)ethanol (Compound No. 332)

2-(3,4-dihydro-8-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-2(5H)-yl)ethanol (232 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol), copper(I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) and L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) was added in to it. 4-(1-bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (294 mg, 1.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL) and added dropwise. Nitrogen was purged for 2 min. and the reaction mixture was heated at 85° C. overnight (prolonged heating was required in some cases). DMF was evaporated and water was added. The precipitate obtained was filtered and purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using 0-8% MeOH:DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase purification. Yield: 115 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.70 (d, 2H), 7.68 (d, 2H), 7.38 (m, 2H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 4.60 (m, 2H), 4.0 (m, 2H), 3.78 (m, 2H), 3.50 (m, 2H), 3.15 (m, 2H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.05 (s, 3H).

Example 295 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyrazin-2-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H)-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 333)

A solution of 1-(8-chloro-2-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-pyrazin-2-yl-propan-2-ol (500 mg, 1.4 mmol) in DCM (8 mL) and DMF (2 drops) was stirred at 0-10° C. Thionyl chloride (0.5 mL, 7.0 mmol) was diluted in DCM (8 mL) and added and the reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 1 h. The solvent was removed under vacuum to obtain the crude foamy solid. The Solid was dissolved in NMP (6 mL) stirred for 5 min and powdered KOH (551 mg, 9.83 mmol) was and heated at 100° C. for 30 min. After completion of reaction, the reaction mixture was poured in water and extracted with EtOAc (100 mL×3). The organic layer washed with water, concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude product and purified by prep HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.80 (s, 1H), 8.58 (d, 1H), 8.50 (d, 1H), 7.62 (s, 1H), 7.40 (s, 1H), 7.15 (d, 1H), 7.05 (d, 1H), 3.70 (s, 2H), 2.82 (m, 4H), 2.58 (s, 3H), 2.10 (s, 3H).

Example 296 Preparation of (E)-7-isopropyl-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 334)

1-(7-Isopropyl-2-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-pyridin-4-yl-propan-2-ol (100 mg, 0.2 mmol) was dissolved in SOCl₂ (1.0 mL) and stirred the reaction at RT for 2 h. After completion of starting material by monitoring TLC reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure and saturated bicarbonate was added, extracted with EtOAc, organic layer was washed with water, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated, and purified by reverse phase Chromatography. Yield: 68 mg. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.62 (d, 2H), 7.70 (d, 2H), 7.48 (s, 1H), 7.42 (d, 1H), 7.05 (m, 2H), 4.40 (m, 2H), 3.58 (m, 2H), 3.05 (m, 3H), 2.95 (s, 3H), 1.95 (s, 3H), 1.25 (d, 6H).

Example 297 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(thiophen-2-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H)-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 338)

8-Chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (110 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL) and potassium phosphate (212.4 mg, 1 mmol), copper(I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol) and L-proline (11.51 mg, 0.1 mmol) was added in to it. 2-(1-bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)thiophene (121.8 mg, 0.6 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL) and added dropwise. Nitrogen was purged for 2 min and the reaction mixture was heated at 85° C. overnight (prolonged heating was required in some cases). DMF was evaporated and water was added. The precipitate obtained was filtered and purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using 0-3% MeOH:DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase purification. Yield: 20 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.55 (s, 1H), 7.42 (d, 1H), 7.38 (d, 1H), 7.20 (s, 2H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 4.50 (m, 2H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.10 (m, 5H), 2.0 (s, 3H).

Example 298 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-cyclohexylprop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 367)

8-Chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (110 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL) and potassium phosphate (212.4 mg, 1 mmol), copper(I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol) and L-proline (11.51 mg, 0.1 mmol) was added in to it. (1-bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)cyclohexane (121.8 mg, 0.6 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL) and added dropwise. Nitrogen was purged for 2 min and the reaction mixture was heated at 85° C. overnight (prolonged heating was required in some cases). DMF was evaporated and water was added. The precipitate obtained was filtered and purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using 0-3% MeOH:DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase purification. Yield: 35 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.50 (s, 1H), 7.18 (m, 2H), 6.28 (s, 1H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.58 (m, 1H), 3.82 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.15 (s, 3H), 3.10 (m, 2H), 2.0 (m, 1H), 1.90 (s, 3H), 1.70 (m, 2H), 1.58 (m, 1H), 1.50 (m, 4H), 1.15 (m, 3H).

Example 299 Preparation of (Z)-5-(2-cyclohexylprop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 368)

2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (100 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL) and potassium phosphate (212.4 mg, 1 mmol), copper(I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol) and L-proline (11.51 mg, 0.1 mmol) was added in to it. (1-bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)cyclohexane (121.8 mg, 0.6 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL) and added dropwise. Nitrogen was purged for 2 min and the reaction mixture was heated at 85° C. overnight (prolonged heating was required in some cases). DMF was evaporated and water was added. The precipitate obtained was filtered and purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using 0-3% MeOH:DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase purification. Yield: 0.45 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.25 (s, 1H), 7.0 (m, 2H), 6.42 (s, 1H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.35 (m, 1H), 3.85 (m, 1H), 3.58 (m, 1H), 3.12 (s, 3H), 3.05 (m, 2H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.30 (m, 1H), 1.90 (m, 5H), 1.78 (m, 1H), 1.50-1.30 (m, 7H).

Example 300 Preparation of (Z)-8-chloro-5-(2-cyclohexylprop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 369)

8-Chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (110 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL) and potassium phosphate (212.4 mg, 1 mmol), copper(I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol) and L-proline (11.51 mg, 0.1 mmol) was added in to it. (1-bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)cyclohexane (121.8 mg, 0.6 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL) and added dropwise. Nitrogen was purged for 2 min and the reaction mixture was heated at 85° C. overnight (prolonged heating was required in some cases). DMF was evaporated and water was added. The precipitate obtained was filtered and purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using 0-3% MeOH:DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase purification. Yield: 6 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.50 (s, 1H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 6.42 (s, 1H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.38 (m, 1H), 3.82 (m, 1H), 3.58 (m, 1H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 3.05 (m, 2H), 2.30 (m, 1H), 1.90 (m, 4H), 1.78 (m, 1H), 1.42-1.30 (m, 8H).

Example 301 Preparation of 8-chloro-2,3-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 365)

1-(8-Chloro-2,3-dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-pyridin-4-yl-propan-2-ol (900 mg, 2.43 mmol) was dissolved in 5 mL DCM. To this, thionyl Chloride (2 mL in DCM) was added dropwise at 0° C. and stirred for 2.5 h at RT. After completion of starting material (TLC) excess thionyl chloride and solvent was evaporated under vacuum. The residue was neutralized with saturated solution of Sodium bicarbonate at 0° C. and extracted with EtOAc (3 times). The combined organic layer was washed with water, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, concentrated to obtain 720 mg of crude which was subjected to reverse phase chromatography to obtain 80 mg of product as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.70 (d, 2H), 7.95 (d, 2H), 7.55 (s, 1H), 7.42 (d, 1H), 7.20 (d, 1H), 5.85 (s, 1H), 5.30 (s, 2H), 4.78 (s, 1H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 4.10 (m, 1H), 3.85 (m, 1H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 2.95 (m, 1H), 1.50 (m, 2H).

Example 302 Preparation of (E)-2-(1-(8-chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)prop-1-en-2-yl)thiazole (Compound No. 370)

8-Chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (110 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL) and potassium phosphate (212.4 mg, 1 mmol), copper(I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol) and L-proline (11.51 mg, 0.1 mmol) was added in to it. Then 2-(1-bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)thiazole (122.4 mg, 0.6 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL) and added dropwise. Nitrogen was purged for 2 min and the reaction mixture was heated at 85° C. overnight (prolonged heating was required some cases). DMF was evaporated and water was added. The precipitate obtained was filtered and purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using 0-3% MeOH:DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase purification. Yield: 9 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.90 (d, 1H), 7.65 (d, 2H), 7.55 (s, 1H), 7.22 (s, 2H), 4.55 (m, 2H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.18 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.10 (s, 3H).

Example 303 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-cyclohexylprop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 375)

2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (100 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL). potassium phosphate (212.4 mg, 1 mmol), copper (I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol) and L-proline (11.51 mg, 0.1 mmol) were added. (1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)cyclohexane (121.8 mg, 0.6 mmol) dissolved in DMF (2 mL) was added dropwise to it. Nitrogen was purged for 2 min and the reaction mixture was heated at 85° C. overnight (prolonged heating required in some cases). DMF was evaporated and water added to the reaction mixture. The precipitate obtained was filtered and purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using 0-3% MeOH: DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase HPLC. Yield: 11 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.24 (s, 1H), 7.06 (d, 1H), 7.0 (d, 1H), 6.25 (s, 1H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.35 (m, 1H), 3.82 (m, 1H), 3.48 (m, 1H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 3.04 (m, 2H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.10 (m, 1H), 1.90 (s, 3H), 1.65 (m, 2H), 1.60-1.40 (m, 5H), 1.20-1.0 (m, 3H).

Example 304 Preparation of (E)-2-(8-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-2(5H)-yl)ethanol (Compound No. 376)

2-(3,4-Dihydro-8-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-2 (5H)-yl)ethanol (232 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL). potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol), copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) and L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) were added. 4-(1-bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (294 mg, 1.5 mmol) dissolved in DMF (2 mL) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture. Nitrogen was purged for 2 min in the reaction mixture which was heated at 85° C. overnight (prolonged heating was required in some cases). DMF was evaporated and water added to the reaction mixture. The precipitate obtained was filtered and purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using 0-8% MeOH: DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase purification. Yield: 115 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.70 (d, 2H), 7.68 (d, 2H), 7.38 (m, 2H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 4.60 (m, 2H), 4.0 (m, 2H), 3.78 (m, 2H), 3.50 (m, 2H), 3.15 (m, 2H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.05 (s, 3H).

Example 305 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyrazin-2-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 377)

A solution of 1-(8-chloro-2-methyl 1,2,3,4 tetrahydro-pyrido (4,3-b) indol-5-yl)-2-pyrazin-2-yl-propan-2-ol (500 mg, 1.4 mmol) in DCM (8 mL) and DMF (2 drops) was stirred at 0-10° C. Thionyl chloride (0.5 mL, 7.0 mmol) diluted in DCM (8 mL) was added to the reaction mixture, which was stirred at RT for 1 h. The solvent was removed under vacuum to obtain the crude foamy solid. The solid was dissolved in NMP (6 mL) and the reaction mixture stirred for 5 min. Powdered KOH (551 mg, 9.83 mmol) was added to the reaction mixture and the mixture heated at 100° C. for 30 min. After completion of reaction, the reaction mixture was poured in water and extracted with EtOAc (100 mL×3). The organic layer was washed with water, concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude product which was purified by reverse phase HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 8.80 (s, 1H), 8.58 (d, 1H), 8.50 (d, 1H), 7.62 (s, 1H), 7.40 (s, 1H), 7.15 (d, 1H), 7.05 (d, 1H), 3.70 (s, 2H), 2.82 (m, 4H), 2.58 (s, 3H), 2.10 (s, 3H).

Example 306 Preparation of (E)-7-isopropyl-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 378)

1-(7-Isopropyl-2-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-pyridin-4-yl-propan-2-ol (100 mg, 0.2 mmol) was dissolved in SOCl2 (1.0 mL) and the reaction was stirred at RT for 2 h. After completion of reaction (as monitored by TLC) reaction mixture was concentrated under vacuum and saturated bicarbonate solution was added. The desired compound was extracted with EtOAc, organic layer washed with water, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum. The crude compound was purified by reverse phase chromatography. Yield: 68 mg. ¹H NMR (DMSO, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.62 (d, 2H), 7.70 (d, 2H), 7.48 (s, 1H), 7.42 (d, 1H), 7.05 (m, 2H), 4.40 (m, 2H), 3.58 (m, 2H), 3.05 (m, 3H), 2.95 (s, 3H), 1.95 (s, 3H), 1.25 (d, 2H).

Example 307 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(thiophen-2-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 379)

8-Chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (110 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL). Potassium phosphate (212.4 mg, 1 mmol), copper (I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol) and L-proline (11.51 mg, 0.1 mmol) were added. 2-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)thiophene (121.8 mg, 0.6 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL) and added dropwise to the reaction mixture. Nitrogen was purged for 2 min and the reaction mixture was heated at 85° C. overnight (prolonged heating required in some cases). DMF was evaporated and water added to the reaction mixture. The precipitate obtained was filtered and purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using 0-3% MeOH: DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase purification. Yield: 20 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.55 (s, 1H), 7.42 (d, 1H), 7.38 (d, 1H), 7.20 (s, 2H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 4.50 (m, 2H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.10 (m, 5H), 2.0 (s, 3H).

Example 308 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-cyclohexylprop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 380)

8-Chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (110 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL) and potassium phosphate (212.4 mg, 1 mmol), copper (I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol), L-proline (11.51 mg, 0.1 mmol) were added. (1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)cyclohexane (121.8 mg, 0.6 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL) and added dropwise to it. Nitrogen was purged for 2 min and the reaction mixture was heated at 85° C. overnight (prolonged heating required in some cases). DMF was evaporated and water added. The precipitate obtained was filtered and purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using 0-3% MeOH: DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase purification. Yield: 35 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.50 (s, 1H), 7.18 (m, 2H), 6.28 (s, 1H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.58 (m, 1H), 3.82 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.15 (s, 3H), 3.10 (m, 2H), 2.0 (m, 1H), 1.90 (s, 3H), 1.70 (m, 2H), 1.58 (m, 1H), 1.50 (m, 4H), 1.15 (m, 3H).

Example 309 Preparation of (Z)-5-(2-cyclohexylprop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 381)

2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (100 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL) and potassium phosphate (212.4 mg, 1 mmol), copper (I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol), L-proline (11.51 mg, 0.1 mmol) were added. (1-bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)cyclohexane (121.8 mg, 0.6 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL) and added dropwise. Nitrogen was purged for 2 min and the reaction mixture heated at 85° C. overnight (prolonged heating required in some cases). DMF was evaporated and water added. The precipitate obtained was filtered and the crude purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using 0-3% MeOH: DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase purification. Yield: 0.45 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.25 (s, 1H), 7.0 (m, 2H), 6.42 (s, 1H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.35 (m, 1H), 3.85 (m, 1H), 3.58 (m, 1H), 3.12 (s, 3H), 3.05 (m, 2H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.30 (m, 1H), 1.90 (m, 5H), 1.78 (m, 1H), 1.50-1.30 (m, 7H).

Example 310 Preparation of (Z)-8-chloro-5-(2-cyclohexylprop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 382)

8-Chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (110 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL). Potassium phosphate (212.4 mg, 1 mmol), copper (I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol) and L-proline (11.51 mg, 0.1 mmol) were added. (1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)cyclohexane (121.8 mg, 0.6 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL) and added dropwise to the reaction mixture. Nitrogen was purged for 2 min and the reaction mixture heated at 85° C. overnight (prolonged heating required in some cases). DMF was evaporated and water added. The precipitate obtained was filtered and crude Compound was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using 0-3% MeOH: DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase purification. Yield: 6 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.50 (s, 1H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 6.42 (s, 1H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.38 (m, 1H), 3.82 (m, 1H), 3.58 (m, 1H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 3.05 (m, 2H), 2.30 (m, 1H), 1.90 (m, 4H), 1.78 (m, 1H), 1.42-1.30 (m, 8H).

Example 311 Preparation of (E)-2-(1-(8-chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)prop-1-en-2-yl)thiazole (Compound No. 383)

8-Chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (110 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL), potassium phosphate (212.4 mg, 1 mmol), copper (I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol) and L-proline (11.51 mg, 0.1 mmol) were added. 2-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)thiazole (122.4 mg, 0.6 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL) and the solution added dropwise to the reaction mixture. Nitrogen was purged for 2 min and the reaction mixture heated at 85° C. overnight (prolonged heating required in some cases). DMF was evaporated and water added. The precipitate obtained was filtered and the crude compound was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using 0-3% MeOH: DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase purification. Yield: 9 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.90 (d, 1H), 7.65 (d, 2H), 7.55 (s, 1H), 7.22 (s, 2H), 4.55 (m, 2H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.18 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.10 (s, 3H).

Example 312 Preparation of (Z)-8-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 384)

4-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (346 mg, 1.75 mmol) was adsorbed in potassium phosphate (617 mg, 2.9 mmol) and DMF (5 mL) was added followed by copper (I) iodide (27 mg, 0.145 mmol) and L-proline (33 mg, 0.29 mmol). 8-Chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (321 mg, 1.45 mmol) was added to the reaction mixture and nitrogen gas purged for 2 min. The reaction mixture was stirred at 100° C. for 12 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and water (20 mL) was added. The compound was extracted with EtOAc (3×50 mL). The organic layer was washed with water (2×50 mL) and compound was purified through silica gel (100-200 mesh) using 0-5% MeOH: DCM as eluent and further purified through reverse phase HPLC. Yield: 46 mg. ¹H NMR (DMSO, Di-HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.60 (d, 2H), 7.55 (s, 1H), 7.50 (d, 2H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.12 (d, 1H), 7.02 (d, 1H), 4.50 (m, 1H), 4.20 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.38 (m, 1H), 2.85 (m, 2H), 2.80 (s, 3H), 2.36 (s, 3H).

Example 313 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(5-methylpyrazin-2-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 385)

8-Chloro 2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido (4,3-b) indole (200 mg, 0.909 mmol), copper (I) iodide (17.2 mg, 0.09 mmol), L-proline (20.9 mg, 0.1818 mmol), Potassium phosphate tribasic (385 mg, 1.818 mmol) were charged in DMF (3 mL) and stirred for 5 min. 2-(2-bromo-1-methyl-vinyl))-5-methyl pyrazine (210 mg, 0.0.999 mmol) was added and nitrogen gas purged into the reaction mixture for a min. The resulting solution was stirred at RT for 5 min followed by heating at 90° C. for 14 h. After completion of the reaction, DMF was evaporated, water was added and the reaction mixture filtered. The crude product was purified by reverse phase HPLC to obtain 40 mg desired product. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 8.70 (s, 1H), 8.50 (s, 1H), 7.58 (s, 1H), 7.40 (s, 1H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 3.90 (s, 2H), 3.10 (m, 2H), 3.0 (m, 2H), 2.75 (s, 3H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.05 (s, 3H).

Example 314 Preparation of (E)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(5-methylpyrazin-2-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 386)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido (4,3-b) indole (70 mg, 0.35 mmol), copper (I) iodide (6.6 mg, 0.035 mmol), L-proline (8.05 mg, 0.07 mmol), Potassium phosphate tribasic (148 mg, 0.7 mmol) were dissolved in DMF (3 mL) and stirred for 5 min. 2-(2-bromo-1-methyl-vinyl))-5-methyl pyrazine (81 mg, 0.385 mmol) was added and nitrogen gas purged into the reaction mixture for a min. The reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 5 min followed by heating at 90° C. for 14 h. After completion of the reaction, DMF was evaporated. Water was added to the reaction mixture and the mixture filtered to obtain the solid crude, which was purified by reverse phase HPLC to obtain 20 mg desired product. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 8.70 (s, 1H), 8.50 (s, 1H), 7.60 (s, 1H), 7.24 (s, 1H), 7.05 (m, 2H), 3.80 (s, 2H), 2.90 (m, 4H), 2.64 (s, 3H), 2.62 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.14 (s, 3H).

Example 315 Preparation of (E)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(thiophen-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 387)

2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (100 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL). potassium phosphate (212.4 mg, 1 mmol), Copper (I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol) and L-proline (11.51 mg, 0.1 mmol) were added. 3-(1-bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)thiophene (121.8 mg, 0.6 mmol) dissolved in DMF (2 mL) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture. Nitrogen was purged for 2 min and the reaction mixture heated at 85° C. overnight (prolonged heating required some cases). DMF was evaporated and water added to the reaction mixture. The precipitate obtained was filtered and purified through silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using 0-3% MeOH: DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase purification. Yield: 80 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.60 (s, 1H), 7.50 (m, 2H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.18 (s, 1H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 4.55 (m, 2H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.10 (m, 5H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 1.95 (s, 3H).

Example 316 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(thiophen-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 388)

8-Chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (110 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL). potassium phosphate (212.4 mg, 1 mmol), Copper (I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol) and L-proline (11.51 mg, 0.1 mmol) were added. 3-(1-bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)thiophene (121.8 mg, 0.6 mmol) dissolved in DMF (2 mL) was added dropwise to it. Nitrogen was purged for 2 min and the reaction mixture was heated at 85° C. overnight (prolonged heating required in some cases). DMF was evaporated and water added. The precipitate obtained was filtered and purified through silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using 0-3% MeOH: DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase purification. Yield: 110 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.62 (s, 1H), 7.56 (m, 3H), 7.20 (s, 2H), 7.16 (s, 1H), 4.58 (s, 2H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.16 (m, 5H), 1.98 (s, 3H).

Example 317 Preparation of (S,E)-2,3,8-trimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 389)

This optically active compound was obtained by chiral HPLC separation of Compound No. 257. ¹H NMR (D₂O, di-HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.60 (d, 2H), 8.10 (d, 2H), 7.50 (s, 1H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 4.30 (m, 2H), 4.0 (m, 1H), 3.80 (m, 1H), 3.10 (m, 1H), 2.82 (s, 3H), 2.38 (s, 3H), 1.98 (s, 3H), 1.40 (dd, 3H).

Example 318 Preparation of (R,E)-2,3,8-trimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 390)

This optically active compound was obtained by chiral HPLC separation of Compound No. 257. ¹H NMR (D₂O, di-HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.60 (d, 2H), 8.10 (d, 2H), 7.50 (s, 1H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 4.30 (m, 2H), 3.95 (m, 1H), 3.75 (m, 1H), 3.10 (m, 1H), 2.82 (s, 2.30 (s, 3H), 1.98 (s, 3H), 1.40 (dd, 3H).

Example 319 Preparation of (S,E)-8-chloro-2,3-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 391)

This optically active compound was obtained by chiral HPLC separation of Compound No. 275. ¹H NMR (D₂O, di-HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.62 (d, 2H), 8.10 (d, 2H), 7.50 (s, 2H), 7.20 (m, 2H), 4.35 (m, 2H), 3.95 (m, 1H), 3.75 (m, 1H), 3.10 (m, 1H), 2.82 (s, 3H), 1.98 (s, 3H), 1.40 (dd, 3H).

Example 320 Preparation of (R,E)-8-chloro-2,3-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 392)

This optically active compound was obtained by chiral HPLC separation of Compound No. 275. ¹H NMR (D₂O, di-HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.62 (d, 2H), 8.10 (d, 2H), 7.50 (s, 2H), 7.20 (m, 2H), 4.35 (m, 2H), 3.95 (m, 1H), 3.75 (m, 1H), 3.10 (m, 1H), 2.82 (s, 3H), 1.98 (s, 3H), 1.40 (dd, 3H).

Example 321 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-(2,6-dimethylpyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 393)

8-Chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (220 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF and sodium hydride (120 mg, 3 mmol) was added. The reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min and 2,6-dimethyl-4-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (210.6 mg, 1.3 mmol) was added dropwise to the reaction mixture with constant stirring. The reaction mixture was stirred at RT overnight. The reaction mixture was poured on crushed ice and the precipitate obtained was filtered under vacuum; washed with water and hexane to obtain 1-(8-chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(2,6-dimethylpyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (323 mg) which was dissolved in DCM (3 mL) and cooled to 0° C. Thionylchloride (3 mL) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was allowed to cool to RT. The reaction mixture was then stirred at RT for 2 h. Thionylchloride was evaporated under vacuum by azeotropic distillation with DCM. 1N NaOH solution was added to basify (pH—12-13) the reaction mixture and the compound extracted with EtOAc (2×30 mL). The organic layer was concentrated under vacuum to get the crude desired product. The crude compound was further purified through reverse phase HPLC. Yield: 17 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, Di-HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.95 (s, 2H), 7.66 (s, 1H), 7.58 (s, 1H), 7.25 (m, 2H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.62 (m, 1H), 3.22 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 6H), 2.10 (s, 3H).

Example 322 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(2-methylpyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 394)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(2-methylpyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (150 mg, 0.4 mmol) in DCM (12 mL) and DMF (2 drops) was stirred at 0-10° C. Thionyl chloride (145 mg, 1.2 mmol) diluted in DCM (8 mL) was added dropwise and the RM stirred at RT for 2 h. The solvent was removed and the residue dried to obtain foamy solid. The solid was dissolved in NMP (2 mL), stirred for 5 min. Powdered KOH (141 mg, 2.52 mmol) was added to the reaction mixture, which was heated at 80° C. for 1 h. After completion of reaction, the reaction mixture was poured in water and the compound extracted with DCM (3×50 mL). The organic layer was washed with water, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude product which was purified by reverse phase HPLC to obtain 20 mg of 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-((E)-2-(2-methylpyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,5-b]indole as the free base. The free base was converted to HCl salt by treating with ethanolic HCl. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, Di-HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.70 (d, 1H), 8.20 (s, 1H), 8.15 (d, 1H), 7.72 (s, 1H), 7.60 (s, 1H), 7.25 (m, 2H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.80 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.82 (s, 3H), 2.10 (s, 3H).

Example 323 Preparation of (E)-4-(8-chloro-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-2(5H)-yl)-1-(4-fluorophenyl)butan-1-ol (Compound No. 395)

4-(8-Chloro-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-2 (5H)-yl)-1-(4-fluorophenyl)butan-1-ol (200 mg, 0.538 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL). potassium phosphate (457 mg, 2.15 mmol), copper (I) iodide (10.22 mg, 0.054 mmol) and L-proline (12.4 mg, 0.108 mmol) were added. followed by addition of 4-(1-bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (158.1 mg, 0.806 mmol). Nitrogen gas was purged for 2 min and the reaction mixture was heated at 85° C. overnight (prolonged heating required in some cases). DMF was evaporated, water (20 mL) added and the compound extracted with EtOAc (3×50 mL). The organic layer was washed with water (2×50 mL) and the desired compound purified through silica gel (100-200 mesh) using 0-10% MeOH: DCM as eluent. It was further purified through reverse phase HPLC. Yield: 5.4 mg (di HCL salt). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, Di-HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.85 (d, 2H), 8.38 (d, 2H), 7.82 (s, 1H), 7.62 (s, 1H), 7.42 (t, 2H), 7.30 (s, 2H), 7.10 (t, 2H), 4.78 (m, 3H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.95 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.45 (t, 2H), 3.20 (m, 1H), 2.18 (s, 3H), 2.10-1.85 (m, 4H).

Example 324 Preparation of (E)-benzyl 8-chloro-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole-2(5H)-carboxylate (Compound No. 396)

4-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (237 mg, 1.2 mmol) was dissolved in DMF and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) was added followed by the addition of copper (I)iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) and L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol). Benzyl 8-chloro-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole-2 (5H)-carboxylate (340 mg, 1 mmol) was added and nitrogen gas purged for 2 min. The reaction mixture was heated at 80° C. overnight. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and water (20 mL) was added. The compound was extracted with EtOAc (3×50 mL). The organic layer was washed with water (2×50 mL) and compound was purified through reverse phase HPLC. Yield: 13.4 mg. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 8.64 (d, 2H), 7.25-7.15 (m, 8H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 7.05 (m, 2H), 5.20 (s, 2H), 4.70 (s, 2H), 3.90 (m, 2H), 2.78 (m, 2H), 1.98 (s, 3H).

Example 325 Preparation of (Z)-8-chloro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 397)

1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-4-fluorobenzene (511.2 mg, 2.4 mmol) was dissolved in DMF. Potassium phosphate (848 mg, 4 mmol) was added followed by the addition of copper (I)iodide (38 mg, 0.2 mmol) and L-proline (46 mg, 0.4 mmol). 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (440 mg, 2 mmol) was added to the reaction mixture and nitrogen gas purged for 2 min. The reaction mixture was heated at 85° C. overnight. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and ice water was added. Solid mass was filtered under vacuum and crude purified by silica gel chromatography using 0-3% MeOH: DCM as eluent. Two isomers were further purified through reverse phase HPLC and peak 1 was submitted as the final compound. Yield: 120 mg. ¹H NMR (DMSO, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.50 (s, 1H), 7.10-6.95 (m, 6H), 6.82 (s, 1H), 4.50 (m, 1H), 4.20 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 2.85 (s, 3H), 2.80 (m, 2H), 2.25 (s, 3H).

Example 326 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2-(3-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)-1,3-dioxolan-2-yl)propyl)-5-(2-pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 398)

8-Chloro-2-(3-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)-1,3-dioxolan-2-yl)propyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-5-((E)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (207 mg, 0.5 mmol) along with CuI (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol), L-proline (11.5 mg, 0.1 mmol), potassium phosphate (212 mg, 1 mmol) and 4-(1-bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (0.285 mg, 1.44 mmol) were charged in DMF (5 mL) and nitrogen gas was purged into the reaction mixture for 2 min. The reaction mixture was heated to 85° C. over night. Ice water (4-5 mL) was added and solid mass was filtered to obtain the crude product which was purified by column chromatography by Silica gel (100-200 mesh) using 0-3% MeOH: DCM as eluent. The purified product was further purified by reverse phase HPLC. Yield: 7 mg (oxalate salt). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, free base) δ (ppm): 8.58 (d, 2H), 7.70 (d, 2H), 7.50 (m, 2H), 7.42 (s, 1H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.12 (s, 2H), 7.05 (t, 2H), 4.60 (s, 2H), 4.05 (t, 2H), 3.78 (t, 2H), 3.70 (s, 2H), 2.90 (m, 2H), 2.82 (m, 2H), 2.64 (m, 2H), 2.0 (s, 3H), 1.90 (m, 2H).

Example 327 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-(2,6-dimethylpyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 399)

2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF and sodium hydride (120 mg, 3 mmol) was added. The reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min and 2,6-dimethyl-4-(2-methyloxiran-2-yl)pyridine (210.6 mg, 1.3 mmol) was added dropwise to it with constant stirring. The reaction mixture was stirred at RT overnight. The reaction mixture was poured on crushed ice and the precipitate obtained was filtered under vacuum; washed with water and hexane to obtain 1-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(2,6-dimethylpyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (260 mg), which was dissolved in DCM (3 mL) and cooled to 0° C. Thionylchloride (3 mL) was added dropwise to it and the reaction mixture cooled to RT. The reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. Thionylchloride was evaporated under vacuum by azeotropic distillation with DCM. 1N NaOH solution was added to basify (pH—12-13) the reaction mixture and extracted with EtOAc (40 mL×2). The organic layer was concentrated under vacuum to get the desired product. The crude compound was further purified through reverse phase HPLC. Yield: 13 mg (HCl salt). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, Di-HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.0 (s, 2H), 7.70 (s, 1H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.10 (s, 2H), 4.76 (d, 1H), 4.40 (d, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.28 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 1H), 3.16 (s, 3H), 2.80 (s, 6H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.10 (s, 3H).

Example 328 Preparation of (E)-2-(3-methoxypropyl)-8-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 400)

1-[2-(3-Methoxy-propyl)-8-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl]-2-pyridin-4-yl-propan-2-ol (550 mg, 1.39 mmol) was dissolved in thionyl chloride (5 mL), stirred at RT for 1 h. Progress of the reaction was monitored by TLC/LCMS. After completion of the reaction, excess thionyl chloride was evaporated under vacuum. The solid mass obtained was neutralized with aqueous sodium bicarbonate and the desired compound extracted with EtOAc (100 mL×2). The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, concentrated under vacuum to obtain crude product, which was purified by silica gel column chromatography (100-200 mesh) using MeOH: DCM (0-10%) as eluent followed by reverse phase HPLC to obtain 35 mg of 2-(3-Methoxy-propyl)-8-methyl-5-(2-pyridin-4-yl-propenyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 8.62 (d, 2H), 7.42 (d, 2H), 7.22 (s, 1H), 7.10 (s, 1H), 7.0 (s, 2H), 3.80 (s, 2H), 3.50 (t, 2H), 3.36 (s, 3H), 2.92 (m, 2H), 2.78 (m, 4H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.02 (s, 3H), 1.95 (m, 2H). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.82 (d, 2H), 8.30 (d, 2H), 7.80 (s, 1H), 7.38 (s, 1H), 7.16 (s, 2H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.98 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 4H), 3.50 (t, 2H), 3.40 (s, 3H), 3.25 (m, 2H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.20 (m, 2H), 2.18 (s, 3H).

Example 329 Preparation of (E)-8-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 401)

To a solution of (E)-2-allyl-8-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole in dry degassed DCM (2.5 mL per mmol of amine) was added the catalyst (tetrakis(triphenylphosphine)palladium (0.01 molar equiv per allyl group to be removed) and N,N′-dimethylbarbituric acid (3 equiv per allyl group) under Argon. The usually homogenous mixture was stirred at RT for 3-4 h. DCM was removed under vacuum and replaced by ether. The ethereal mixture was extracted twice with small volumes of saturated aqueous K₂CO₃, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and evaporated under reduced pressure. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.78 (d, 2H), 8.22 (d, 2H), 7.70 (s, 1H), 7.34 (s, 1H0, 7.15 (s, 2H), 4.46 (s, 2H), 3.64 (t, 2H), 3.10 (t, 2H), 2.44 (s, 3H), 2.12 (s, 3H).

Example 330 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 402)

To a solution of the (E)-2-allyl-8-chloro-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole in dry degassed DCM (2.5 mL per mmol of amine) was added the catalyst (tetrakis(triphenylphosphine) palladium (0.01 molar equiv per allyl group to be removed)) and N,N′-dimethylbarbituric acid (3 equiv per allyl group) under argon. The usually homogenous mixture was stirred at RT for 3-4 h. DCM was removed under vacuum and replaced by ether. The ethereal mixture was extracted twice with small volumes of saturated aqueous K2CO3, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and evaporated under reduced pressure. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, Oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.62 (d, 2H), 7.78 (d, 2H), 7.58 (s, 1H), 7.38 (s, 1H), 7.24 (s, 2H), 4.50 (s, 2H), 3.65 (m, 2H), 3.10 (m, 2H), 2.02 (s, 3H).

Example 331 Preparation of (E)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(3-(pyridin-4-yl)but-2-en-2-yl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 403)

4-(3-Bromobut-2-en-2-yl)pyridine (127 mg, 0.59 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL) and potassium phosphate (212 mg, 1 mmol) was added followed by copper (I) iodide (9.5 mg, 0.05 mmol) and L-proline (11.5 mg, 0.1 mmol). 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (100 mg, 0.5 mmol) was added and nitrogen gas purged for 2 min. The reaction mixture was stirred at 85° C. overnight. Water was added and the reaction mixture filtered to obtain the solid mass under vacuum. The crude product was purified on silica gel (100-200 mesh) using 0-10% MeOH:DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase chromatography. Yield: 5 mg (TFA salt). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, free base) δ (ppm): 8.60 (d, 2H), 7.50 (d, 2H), 7.24 (s, 1H), 7.12 (d, 1H), 6.99 (d, 1H), 3.78 (s, 2H), 2.98 (m, 2H), 2.90 (m, 2H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 1.92 (s, 3H), 1.66 (s, 3H).

Example 332 Preparation of (E)-4-(8-chloro-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-2(5H)-yl)-2-methylbutan-2-ol (Compound No. 404)

4-(8-Chloro-1,3,4,5-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-2-yl-)2-methyl butan-2-ol (100 mg, 0.341 mmol), 4-(2-bromo-1-methyl-)vinyl pyridine (81 mg, 0.409 mmol), L-proline (8 mg, 0.069 mmol), copper (I) iodide (7 mg, 0.036 mmol), potassium phosphate (144 mg, 0.677 mmol) in DMF (2.0 mL) were charged together and nitrogen gas was purged into it. The reaction mixture was heated at 95° C. overnight and the reaction monitored by TLC/LCMS. The reaction mixture was diluted with 20 mL water and extracted with DCM (20 mL×3). The organic layer was dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude product which was purified by reverse phase HPLC to obtain 40 mg 4-(8-chloro-3,4-dihydro-5-((E)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-2 (5H)-yl)-2-methylbutan-2-ol as the free base. The free base compound was converted to HCl salt by treated with ethanolic HCl. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.84 (d, 2H), 8.38 (d, 2H), 7.80 (s, 1H), 7.62 (s, 1H), 7.24 (s, 2H), 4.80 (m, 2H), 4.42 (m, 1H), 3.98 (m, 1H), 3.56 (m, 2H), 3.24 (m, 2H), 2.16 (s, 3H), 2.05 (m, 2H), 1.35 (s, 6H).

Example 333 Preparation of (E)-2-allyl-8-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 405)

4-(2-Bromo-1-methyl-vinyl)-pyridine (2.5 g, 13 mmol) and potassium phosphate (4.2 g, 20 mmol) were stirred for 5 min. DMF (20 mL) was added and the solution stirred for 5 min followed by addition of L-proline (230 mg, 2.0 mmol) and cuprous iodide (190 mg, 1.0 mmol). N₂ gas was bubbled into the reaction mixture, and 2-Allyl-8-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (2.0 g, 10 mmol) was added. The reaction mixture was heated at 120° C. for 16 h. After completion of reaction (as monitored by TLC) the mixture was concentrated under vacuum and diluted with water. The compound was extracted with EtOAc (4×100 mL) and organic layer dried over sodium sulfate, concentrated under vacuum under vacuum. The crude product was purified by column chromatography [Eluent: 2% MeOH in DCM]. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.82 (d, 2H), 8.38 (d, 2H), 7.82 (s, 1H), 7.39 (s, 1H), 7.18 (s, 2H), 6.15 (m, 1H), 5.70 (m, 2), 4.75 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 4.05 (d, 2H), 3.98 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.25 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 1H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.18 (s, 3H).

Example 334 Preparation of (E)-2-allyl-8-chloro-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 406)

In a 100 mL screw-cap bottle, potassium phosphate tribasic (1.75 g, 8.25 mmol) was taken. 4-(2-Bromo-1-methyl-vinyl)-pyridine (1.1 g, 5.55 mmol) was added under nitrogen at RT. DMF (15 mL) was added and nitrogen was purged into it for 1-2 min. L-proline, (140 mg, 1.21 mmol), copper Iodide (235 mg, 1.21 mmol), and 2-allyl-8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1 g, 4.06 mmol) were added one by one with nitrogen purging. The screw-cap bottle was closed tightly and the contents heated to 120° C. for 12 h. The reaction was monitored by TLC. The reaction mixture was cooled at RT. DMF was evaporated under vacuum, residue diluted with water (100 mL) and the compound extracted with EtOAc (3×50 mL). The combined organic layers were washed with water (200 mL×3), dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude, which was subjected to chromatography (100-200 mesh silica gel and 3% MeOH in DCM as eluent) and recrystallized in ether:hexane (10:90 ratio) to obtain 380 mg of 2-Allyl-8-chloro-5-(2-pyridin-4-yl-propenyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.84 (d, 2H), 8.38 (d, 2H), 7.82 (s, 1H), 7.60 (s, 1H), 7.24 (s, 2H), 6.10 (m, 1H), 5.70 (m, 2H), 4.75 (m, 2H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 4.05 (d, 2H), 4.0 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.25 (m, 1H), 2.18 (s, 3H).

Example 335 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-(2,2-diphenylvinyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3b]indole (Compound No. 407)

A solution of 2-(8-chloro-2-methyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1,1-diphenyl-ethanol (100 mg, 0.24 mmol) in DCM (5 mL) and DMF (2 drops) was stirred at 0-10° C. Thionyl chloride (1.5 mL, 20.67 mmol) was added and the reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. The solvent was removed under vacuum to obtain the crude yellow solid. 1N NaOH (10 mL) was added to the reaction mixture and the compound extracted with EtOAc (2×20 mL). The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude product (100 mg) which was purified by column chromatography on silica gel (100-200 mesh) [Eluent: 0-2.5% MeOH and DCM] to yield 35 mg product which was converted to HCL salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.46-7.40 (m, 6H), 7.25-7.16 (m, 5H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 6.98 (d, 2H), 4.62 (d, 1H), 4.30 (d, 1H), 3.70 (m, 1H), 3.40 (m, 1H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.90 (m, 2H).

Example 336 Preparation of (Z)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(1-phenylprop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 408)

Iodo benzene (0.5 g, 2.4 mmol) and 2,8-dimethyl-5-(prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (588 mg, 2.4 mmol) were charged in triethanolamine (4 mL). Palladium (II)acetate (5 mg, 0.024 mmol) was added and stirred at 100° C. for 14 h. The reaction was monitored by TLC and LCMS. After completion of the reaction, water was added. The desired compound was extracted with diethyl ether twice. The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and evaporated under reduced pressure. The crude product was purified by column chromatography to afford 0.3 g of product. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.24 (s, 1H), 7.18 (m, 3H), 6.96-6.82 (m, 4H), 6.62 (m, 1H), 4.66 (m, 1H), 4.30 (m, 1H), 3.64 (m, 1H), 3.42 (m, 1H), 3.0 (s, 1H), 2.80 (m, 1H), 2.60 (m, 1H), 2.36 (s, 3H), 1.50 (d, 3H).

Example 337 Preparation of 5-(2,2-diphenylvinyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 409)

A solution of 2-(2,8-Dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1,1-diphenyl-ethanol (100 mg, 0.25 mmol) in DCM (5 mL) and DMF (2 drops) was stirred at 0-10° C. Thionyl chloride (1.55 mL, 21.46 mmol) was added and the reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2.5 h. The solvent was removed under vacuum to obtain crude yellow solid. 1N NaOH (10 mL) was added to the reaction mixture and the desired compound extracted with EtOAc (20 mL×2). The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude product (90 mg) which was purified by column chromatography on silica gel (100-200 mesh) using eluent 0-3% MeOH and DCM to obtain 15 mg product which was converted to HCL salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.40 (m, 5H), 7.22-7.16 (m, 6H), 6.98 (m, 3H), 4.62 (d, 1H), 4.30 (m, 1H), 3.62 (m, 1H), 3.36 (m, 1H), 2.98 (s, 3H), 2.80 (m, 2H), 2.40 (s, 3H).

Example 338 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 410)

1-(2-Bromo-1-methyl-vinyl)-3,5-dichloro-benzene (315 mg, 1.2 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL) and potassium phosphate (414 mg, 2 mmol) was added followed by CuI (19 mg, 0.1 mmol), L-Proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) and 2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.2 g, 1 mmol). Nitrogen was purged in the reaction mixture for 5 min and the contents stirred at 85° C. overnight. The reaction mixture was poured into ice water (10 mL) to get the solid mass which was filtered off under vacuum. The residue obtained was purified through reverse phase HPLC to get desired product. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.80 (s, 1H), 7.50 (s, 2H), 7.38 (s, 1H), 7.20 (s, 1H), 7.0 (m, 2H), 4.42 (m, 2H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.05 (m, 2H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.38 (s, 3H), 1.82 (s, 3H).

Example 339 Preparation of (E)-8-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-2(5H)-carbaldehyde (Compound No. 411)

4-(2-Bromo-1-methyl-vinyl)-pyridine (2.5 g, 13 mmol) and potassium phosphate (4.2 g, 20 mmol) were stirred for 5 min. DMF (20 mL) was added and the contents stirred for 5 min. L-proline (230 mg, 2.0 mmol) and cuprous iodide (190 mg, 1.0 mmol) were added to the reaction mixture and N2 bubbled into the reaction mixture. 2-Allyl-8-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (2.0 g, 10 mmol) was added and the contents heated at 120° C. for 16 h. After completion of reaction (as monitored by TLC) the reaction mixture was concentrated under vacuum and diluted with water. The desired compound was extracted with EtOAc (4×100 mL). The organic layer was dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude product, which was purified by column chromatography [Eluent: 2% MeOH in DCM]. ¹H NMR (DMSO, free base) δ (ppm): 8.60 (d, 2H), 8.20 (s, 1H), 7.64 (d, 2H), 7.42 (s, 1H), 7.32 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 4.60 (d, 2H), 3.80 (m, 2H), 2.80 (m, 2H), 2.41 (s, 3H), 1.96 (s, 3H).

Example 340 Preparation of (E)-8-methyl-2-phenethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 412)

8-Methyl-5-(2-pyridin-4-yl-propenyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (100 mg, 0.33 mmol) was dissolved in acetonitrile (1 mL) and (2-Bromo-ethyl)-benzene (62 mg, 0.33 mmol) was added to the reaction mixture. The contents were heated to 80° C. for 2 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT after 2 h and diluted with saturated bicarbonate (20 mL). The desired compound was extracted with EtOAc (2×50 mL). The organic layer dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude product which was purified by reverse phase chromatography to obtain 8.7 mg of 8-Methyl-2-phenethyl-5-(2-pyridin-4-yl-propenyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.82 (d, 2H), 7.90 (d, 2H), 7.42 (s, 1H), 7.38-7.22 (m, 6H) 7.16 (d, 1H), 7.02 (d, 1H), 4.90 (m, 1H), 4.20 (m, 1H), 3.98 (m, 1H), 3.60-3.40 (m, 4H), 3.24 (m, 2H), 2.95 (m, 1H), 2.44 (s, 3H), 2.12 (s, 3H).

Example 341 Preparation of (Z)-5-(2-methoxy-2-(pyridin-4-yl)vinyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 413)

2-(2,8-Dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-pyridin-4-yl-ethanone (100 mg) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL). Sodium hydride was added at once under nitrogen atmosphere followed by addition of methyl iodide. The contents were stirred at RT overnight. The reaction was monitored by LCMS. The reaction mixture was poured into 25 mL ice cold water and extracted with EtOAc (20 mL×3). The combined organic layers were given water washing (30 mL×2), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude product, which was purified by reverse phase column chromatography to get 2 mg product as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.78 (d, 2H), 8.22 (d, 2H), 7.70 (s, 1H), 7.34 (m, 2H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 4.80 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 2H), 3.80 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.40 (s, 3H), 3.26 (m, 2H), 3.16 (s, 3H), 2.44 (s, 3H).

Example 342 Preparation of (E)-4-(8-chloro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-2(5H)-yl)-2-methylbutan-2-ol (Compound No. 414)

4-(8-Chloro-1,3,4,5-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-2-yl-)2-methyl butan-2-ol (292 mg, 1.0 mmol), 1-((1-bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-4-fluorobenzene (322 mg, 1.5 mmol), L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol), Cuprous (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol), potassium phosphate (636 mg, 3.0 mmol) in DMF (5 mL) were charged in a reaction vessel and nitrogen gas purged into the reaction mixture. The reaction mixture was heated at 95° C. overnight. The reaction was monitored by TLC/LCMS. The reaction mixture was diluted with water (20 mL) and the desired compound extracted with DCM (20 mL×3). The organic layer was dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude compound which was purified by reverse phase HPLC to obtain 280 mg of desired product as the free base. The free base compound was converted to HCl salt by treatment with ethanolic HCl. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.68 (m, 2H), 7.58 (s, 1H), 7.20 (m, 4H), 6.98 (s, 1H), 4.80 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.98 (m, 1H), 3.61 (m, 1H), 3.55 (m, 2H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 2.06 (m, 2H), 1.96 (s, 3H), 1.35 (s, 6H).

Example 343 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2-methyl-5-styryl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 415)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (20 mg, 0.09 mmol), (2-Bromo-vinyl)-benzene (22 mg, 0.12 mmol), potassium phosphate (50 mg, 0.24 mmol), L-Proline (2 mg, 0.017 mmol), CuI (2 mg, 0.01 mmol) were stirred together in dry DMF (1 mL) at RT and N2 gas was purged into it for 5 min. The reaction mixture was heated in microwave at 100° C. for 5 h and then diluted with water. The desired compound was extracted with EtOAc, organic layer dried on anhydrous sodium sulfate, concentrated under vacuum to obtain crude compound which was purified by RHPLC to obtained 8-Chloro-2-methyl-5-styryl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole as an off-white solid. Yield: 11 mg. ¹H NMR (DMSO, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.90 (d, 1H), 7.80 (d, 1H), 7.65 (m, 3H), 7.42 (t, 2H), 7.30 (m, 2H), 6.98 (d, 1H), 4.60-4.30 (m, 2H), 4.0 (m, 1H), 3.70 (m, 1H), 3.25 (m, 2H), 3.02 (s, 3H).

Example 344 Preparation of (Z)-5-(2-(6-bromopyridin-3-yl)-2-fluorovinyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 416)

A mixture of 5-Ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (113 mg, 0.50 mmol), 2,5-dibromopyridine (100 mg, 0.42 mmol), dichlorobistriphenylphosphine palladium (II) (8 mg, 0.012 mmol) and TBAF.3H₂O (396 mg, 1.26 mmol) were charged in a reaction vessel and heated at 80° C. for 5 min in microwave. After completion of reaction (as monitored by TLC & LCMS) the reaction mixture was poured into water (10 mL) and the desired compound extracted with EtOAc (20 mL×2). The organic layer was dried over sodium sulfate, concentrated under vacuum and purified by reverse phase chromatography to obtain 20 mg of 5-[2-(6-Bromo-pyridin-3-yl)-1-fluoro-vinyl]-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.62 (s, 1H), 8.08 (d, 1H), 7.78 (d, 1H), 7.24 (s, 1H), 7.16 (d, 1H), 6.10 (d, 1H), 4.62 (d, 2H), 4.30 (d, 1H), 3.80 (m, 1H), 3.50 (m, 2H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 2.38 (s, 3H).

Example 345 Preparation of (Z)-8-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(3-methylpyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 417)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-(3-methylpyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (300 mg, 0.813 mmol) in SOCl₂ (4 mL) was stirred at RT for 1 h. Excess SOCl₂ was removed under vacuum to obtain 8-chloro-5-[2-chloro-2-(3-methyl-pyridin-4-yl)-propyl]-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (305 mg, 0.78 mmol) which was dissolved in NMP (3 mL). Powdered KOH (308.14 mg, 5.50 mmol) was added and the contents heated at 80° C. for 2 h. The progress of the reaction was monitored by TLC and LCMS. After completion of reaction, The reaction mixture was poured on ice cold water. The aqueous phase was extracted with EtOAc (500 mL). The organic layer was washed with water (100 mL), dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude product, which was subjected to reverse phase HPLC to yield 5 mg of the desired product. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.84 (s, 1H), 8.78 (d, 1H), 8.18 (d, 1H), 7.60 (s, 1H), 7.38 (d, 1H), 7.30 (d, 1H), 6.98 (s, 1H), 4.40 (d, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.62 (m, 1H), 3.22 (m, 2H), 3.16 (s, 3H), 2.70 (s, 3H), 2.0 (s, 3H).

Example 346 Preparation of (Z)-5-(1-methoxy-1-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-en-2-yl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 418)

LAH (87 mg, 52.63 mmol) was taken in dry THF (10 mL) under inert atmosphere stirred for 10 min, 8-methyl-5-(2-methyl-1-oxo-1-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-yl)-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-d]indole-2(5H)-carbaldehyde (0.33 g, 0.914 mmol) was added portionwise and stirred at RT for 1 h. The reaction was monitored by TLC. LAH was quenched with sat. sodium sulfate (aqueous) at 0° C., filtered the reaction mass. The filtrate was extracted with EtOAc, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and evaporated to dryness to afford 0.24 g of the title compound as a yellow sticky solid. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 8.36 (d, 2H), 7.20 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 7.0 (d, 1H), 6.78 (d, 2H), 3.78 (s, 2H), 3.60 (s, 3H), 2.82 (m, 1H), 2.74 (m, 1H), 2.60 (m, 1H), 2.50 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.30 (m, 1H), 2.19 (s, 3H).

Example 347 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-fluoro-1,2-bis(6-methylpyridin-3-yl)vinyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 419)

A mixture of 5-Ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (156 mg, 0.69 mmol), 5-bromo-2-methyl-pyridine (100 mg, 0.58 mmol), dichlorobistriphenylphosphine palladium (II) (12 mg, 0.017 mmol) and TBAF.3H₂O (548 mg, 1.74 mmol) were added to a reaction vessel and the contents heated at 80° C. for 5 min in microwave. After completion of starting material (as monitored by TLC & LCMS), the reaction mixture was poured into water (25 mL) and the desired compound extracted with EtOAc (3×50 mL). The organic layer was dried over sodium sulfate, concentrated under vacuum and purified by reverse phase chromatography to obtain 27 mg of 2,8-dimethyl-5-(6-methyl-pyridin-3-ylethynyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 20 mg of 5-[1-fluoro-2,2-bis-(6-methyl-pyridin-3-yl)-vinyl]-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 8.58 (s, 1H), 7.98 (s, 1H), 7.58 (d, 1H), 7.20 (d, 1H), 7.10 (d, 2H), 7.0 (d, 1H), 6.96 (d, 1H), 6.82 (d, 1H), 3.62 (m, 2H), 2.90-2.70 (m, 4H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.50 (s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 6H).

Example 348 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-fluoro-1,2-bis(6-methoxypyridin-3-yl)vinyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 420)

A mixture of 5-Ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (538 mg, 2.4 mmol), 5-Bromo-2-methoxy-pyridine (376 mg, 2.0 mmol), dichlorobistriphenylphosphine palladium (II) (42 mg, 0.059 mmol) and TBAF.3H₂O (1.8 g, 5.71 mmol) were added to a reaction vessel and the contents heated at 80° C. for 5 min in microwave. After completion of reaction (as monitored by TLC & LCMS) reaction mixture was poured into water (40 mL) and the desired compound extracted with EtOAc (3×40 mL). The organic layer was washed with water (3×30 mL), dried over sodium sulfate, concentrated under vacuum and purified by reverse phase chromatography to obtain 52 mg of 5-[1-fluoro-2,2-bis-(6-methoxy-pyridin-3-yl)-vinyl]-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 41 mg of 5-(6-methoxy-pyridin-3-ylethynyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 8.22 (s, 1H), 7.70 (s, 1H), 7.60 (d, 1H), 7.16 (d, 2H), 7.02 (d, 1H), 6.98 (d, 1H), 6.78 (d, 1H), 6.42 (d, 1H), 3.98 (s, 3H), 3.80 (s, 3H), 3.64 (d, 1H), 3.58 (d, 1H), 2.82 (m, 2H), 2.58 (m, 1H), 2.50 (s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H).

Example 349 Preparation of (E)-5-(3-(4-fluorophenyl)but-2-en-2-yl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 421)

1-(3-Bromobut-2-en-2-yl)-4-fluorobenzene (250 mg, 1.2 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL). potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) was added followed by copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) and L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol). 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was added and nitrogen gas was purged into the reaction mixture for 2 min. The contents were stirred at 85° C. overnight. Water (5 mL) was added and the solid mass was filtered under vacuum to obtain crude compound which was purified on silica gel (100-200 mesh) using 0-3% MeOH: DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase chromatography. Yield: 6 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.42 (m, 2H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.20 (m, 3H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 4.70 (d, 1H), 4.40 (d, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.62 (m, 1H), 3.25 (m, 1H), 3.16 (s, 3H), 3.10 (m, 1H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 1.94 (d, 3H), 1.64 (d, 3H).

Example 350 Preparation of (E)-2-(2-fluoroethyl)-8-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 422)

8-Methyl-5-(2-pyridin-4-yl-propenyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (60 mg, 0.19 mmol) was dissolved in acetonitrile (1 mL). Potassium carbonate (82 mg, 0.9 mmol) and 1-Fluoro-2-iodo-ethane (45 mg, 0.25 mmol) were added and stirred at RT for 1 h. The reaction mixture was heated at 80° C. for 1 h. After 1 h the reaction mixture was cooled to RT, diluted with water (10 mL) and extracted with EtOAc (3×20 mL). The organic layer was dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtained 33 mg of desired product. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.62 (d, 2H), 7.80 (d, 2H), 7.42 (s, 1H), 7.36 (s, 1H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 5.05 (m, 1H), 4.92 (m, 1H), 4.65 (s, 2H), 3.82 (m, 3H), 3.78 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.05 (s, 3H).

Example 351 Preparation of (E)-4,4′-(1-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl-2-fluoroethene-1,2-diyl)bis(2-fluoro-N-methylbenzamide) (Compound No. 423)

A mixture of 5-ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (268 mg, 1.2 mmol), 4-bromo-2-fluoro-N-methyl-benzamide (230 mg, 1.0 mmol), dichlorobistriphenyl phosphinepalladium (II) (21 mg, 0.03 mmol) and TBAF.3H₂O (945 mg, 3.0 mmol) were added to a reaction vessel and the contents heated at 80° C. for 5 min in microwave. After completion of reaction (as monitored by TLC & LCMS), the reaction mixture was poured into water (25 mL) and the compound extracted with EtOAc (3×60 mL). The combined organic layers were dried over sodium sulfate, concentrated under vacuum and purified by reverse phase chromatography to obtain 22 mg of 4-[2-(2,8-dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-5-yl)-2-fluoro-vinyl]-2-fluoro-N-methyl-benzamide and 63 mg of product. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.30 (m, 1H), 8.80 (t, 1H), 7.50 (t, 1H), 7.38-7.24 (m, 3H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 6.80 (m, 2H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.25 (m, 2H), 3.04 (s, 3H), 2.96 (d, 3H), 2.82 (s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H).

Example 352 Preparation of (Z)-4-(2-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-1-fluorovinyl)-2-fluoro-N-methylbenzamide (Compound No. 424)

A mixture of 5-ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (268 mg, 1.2 mmol), 4-bromo-2-fluoro-N-methyl-benzamide (230 mg, 1.0 mmol), dichlorobistriphenyl phosphinepalladium (II) (21 mg, 0.03 mmol) and TBAF.3H₂O (945 mg, 3.0 mmol) were added to a reaction vessel and the contents heated at 80° C. for 5 min in microwave. After completion of reaction (as monitored by TLC & LCMS), the reaction mixture was poured into water (25 mL) and the compound extracted with EtOAc (3×60 mL). The combined organic layers were dried over sodium sulfate, concentrated under vacuum and purified by reverse phase chromatography to obtain 22 mg of 4-[2-(2,8-dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-fluoro-vinyl]-2-fluoro-N-methyl-benzamide and 63 mg of product. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.80 (t, 1H), 7.55-7.42 (m, 3H), 7.36 (s, 1H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 6.20 (d, 1H), 4.75 (m, 2H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.18 (s, 3H), 2.94 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H).

Example 353 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-fluoro-1,2-di(pyridin-4-yl)vinyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 425)

A mixture of 5-ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (138 mg, 0.6 mmol), 4-bromopyridinehydrochloride (100 mg, 0.51 mmol), dichlorobistriphenyl phosphine palladium (II) (10 mg, 0.015 mmol) and TBAF.3H₂O (481 mg, 1.5 mmol) were added to a reaction vessel and the contents heated at 80° C. (exothermicity observed; temperature 140° C.) for 5 min in microwave. After completion of the reaction (as monitored by TLC & LCMS) reaction mixture was poured into water (20 mL) and saturated bicarbonate solution was added. The desired compound was extracted with EtOAc (3×20 mL). The organic layer was washed with water (2×20 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain crude product which was purified by reverse phase HPLC. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.60 (d, 2H), 8.22 (d, 2H), 7.35 (d, 2H), 7.06 (s, 1H), 6.90 (d, 2H), 6.70 (d, 2H), 4.30 (m, 2H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.46 (m, 2H), 3.10 (m, 1H), 2.90 (s, 3H), 2.30 (s, 3H).

Example 354 Preparation of (Z)-5-(2-fluoro-2-(pyridin-4-yl)vinyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 426)

A mixture of 5-ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (138 mg, 0.6 mmol), 4-bromopyridinehydrochloride (100 mg, 0.51 mmol), dichlorobistriphenylphosphine palladium (II) (10 mg, 0.015 mmol) and TBAF.3H₂O (481 mg, 1.5 mmol) was added and heated at 80° C. (exothermicity observed; temperature 140° C.) for 5 min in microwave. After completion of reaction (as monitored by TLC & LCMS) reaction mixture was poured into water (20 mL) and saturated bicarbonate solution was added. The desired compound was extracted with EtOAc (3×20 mL) and the organic layer washed with water (2×20 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain crude product that was purified by reverse phase HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.78 (d, 2H), 8.18 (d, 2H), 7.62 (d, 1H), 7.40 (s, 1H), 7.28 (d, 1H), 6.42 (d, 1H), 4.75 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.40 (m, 2H), 3.18 (s, 3H), 2.44 (s, 3H).

Example 355 Preparation of (E)-1-(8-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-2(5H)-yl)propan-2-one (Compound No. 427)

8-Methyl-5-(2-pyridin-4-yl-propenyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (50 mg, 0.165 mmol) was dissolved in 1 mL acetonitrile. Potassium carbonate (70 mg, 0.50 mmol) and chloroacetone (30 mg, 0.33 mmol) were added to the reaction mixture under nitrogen and the contents heated to 70° C. for 2 h. The reaction was monitored by TLC and LCMS. Acetonitrile was evaporated under vacuum and the reaction mixture diluted with water (10 mL). The desired compound was extracted with EtOAc (3×20 mL). The combined organic layers were washed with water (2×20 mL), dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain crude compound which was purified by column chromatography (Eluent: 3% MeOH in DCM) to obtain 19 mg of 1-[8-methyl-5-(2-pyridin-4-yl-propenyl)-1,3,4,5-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-2-yl]-propan-2-one. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.60 (d, 2H), 7.78 (d, 2H), 7.40 (s, 1H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.15 (m, 2H), 4.59 (s, 2H), 4.50 (s, 2H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 3.44 (s, 3H), 3.30 (s, 3H), 2.06 (s, 3H).

Example 356 Preparation of (E)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(1-phenylprop-1-en-2-yl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 428)

A solution of 2-(2,8-dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-phenyl-propan-1-ol (100 mg, 0.29 mmol) in DCM (5 mL) and DMF (2 drops) was stirred at 0-10° C. Thionyl chloride (0.8 mL, 11.02 mmol) was added and the reaction mixture stirred at RT for 2 h. The solvent was removed under vacuum to obtain the crude as a dark brown solid, which was dissolved in NMP (2 mL) and stirred for 5 min. Powdered KOH (167 mg, 2.99 mmol) was added to the reaction mixture and the contents heated at 85° C. for 45 min. After completion of reaction, the reaction mixture was poured in water and the desired compound extracted with EtOAc (3×100 mL). The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude product (40 mg) which was purified by reverse phase HPLC to yield (Z)-2,8-Dimethyl-5-(1-methyl-2-phenyl-vinyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (10 mg) and (E)-2,8-Dimethyl-5-(1-methyl-2-phenyl-vinyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (12 mg) which were converted to their respective HCl salts. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 7.40 (m, 3H), 7.30-7.20 (m, 4H), 6.98 (d, 1H), 6.60 (s, 1H), 3.76 (s, 2H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.30 (s, 3H).

Example 357 Preparation of (Z)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(1-phenylprop-1-en-2-yl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 429)

A solution of 2-(2,8-dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-phenyl-propan-1-ol (100 mg, 0.29 mmol) in DCM (5 mL) and DMF (2 drops) was stirred at 0-10° C. Thionyl chloride (0.8 mL, 11.02 mmol) was added and the reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 h. The solvent was removed under vacuum to obtain the crude as a dark brown solid; which was dissolved in NMP (2 mL). The contents were stirred for 5 min, powdered KOH (167 mg, 2.99 mmol) was added and the reaction mixture heated at 85° C. for 45 min. After completion of reaction, the reaction mixture was poured in water and extracted with EtOAc (3×100 mL). The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude product (40 mg) which was purified by reverse phase HPLC to yield (Z)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(1-methyl-2-phenyl-vinyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (10 mg) and (E)-2,8-Dimethyl-5-(1-methyl-2-phenyl-vinyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (12 mg) which were converted to their respective HCl salts. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 7.22 (s, 1H), 7.16 (d, 1H), 7.08 (m, 3H), 6.98 (d, 1H), 6.70 (m, 2H), 6.60 (s, 1H), 3.82 (m, 2H), 2.78-2.62 (m, 3H), 2.50 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.38 (m, 1H), 2.20 (s, 3H).

Example 358 Preparation of (Z)-5-(2-fluoro-2-(6-methoxypyridin-3-yl)vinyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 430)

5-Ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (285 mg, 0.00127 mol) and 5-bromo-2-methoxy-pyridine (200 mg, 0.001063 mol), dichlorobistriphenylphosphine palladium (II) (20 mg, 0.0000285 mol) and TBAF.3H₂O (1 g, 0.00317 mol) were charged in a microwave tube. The reaction mixture was heated at 80° C. for 5 min in microwave. It was then cooled to RT. The reaction was monitored by TLC and LCMS. The reaction mixture was diluted with water (100 mL) and the compound extracted with EtOAc (3×30 mL). The combined organic layers were washed with water, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude product, which was purified on neutral alumina (Eluent: 0-20%, Hexane/EtOAc). 2 mg of pure product was obtained as a liquid. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 8.22 (s, 1H), 7.92 (d, 1H), 7.36 (d, 1H), 7.20 (s, 1H), 7.04 (d, 1H), 6.80 (d, 1H), 5.70 (d, 1H), 3.68 (s, 2H), 3.92 (m, 2H), 3.88 (m, 2H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H).

Example 359 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-N,2-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-8-amine (Compound No. 431)

Palladium (II)acetate (314 mg, 1.4 mmol) and 2-(di-t-butylphosphino)biphenyl (418 mg, 1.4 mmol) were charged in a reaction bottle which was evacuated and backfilled with nitrogen. Toluene (10 mL) was added dropwise under nitrogen and stirred at RT overnight. The reaction mass was passed through basic alumina using 0-30% ether:hexane and triturated with pentane to yield 300 mg of brownish solid. 8-Chloro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (50 mg, 0.282 mmol), sodium tert-butoxide (81.2 mg, 0.846 mmol), and palladacycle [palladium (II)acetate+2-(di-t-butylphosphino)biphenyl) (10.7 mg, 0.0282 mmol)] was charged in a reaction bottle which was evacuated and back filled with nitrogen for 5 min. Dry toluene (1 mL) was added under nitrogen atmosphere. Finally, 2M methyl amine in THF (0.39 mL, 0.198 mmol) was added and the contents heated at 100° C. overnight. The reaction mixture was filtered and washed with EtOAc (2×25 mL). The filtrate was concentrated under vacuum and purified by reverse phase chromatography to yield 10 mg of free base. ¹H NMR (DMSO, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.62 (d, 2H), 7.20 (d, 2H), 6.96 (d, 2H), 6.58 (d, 1H), 6.50 (s, 1H), 4.24 (m, 2H), 3.40 (m, 2H0, 2.95 (m, 2H), 2.88 (s, 3H), 2.64 (s, 3H), 1.82 (s, 3H).

Example 360 Preparation of (E)-N-butyl-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-8-amine (Compound No. 432)

Palladium (II)acetate (314 mg, 1.4 mmol) and 2-(di-t-butylphosphino)biphenyl (418 mg, 1.4 mmol) were charged in a reaction bottle which was evacuated and backfilled with nitrogen. Toluene (10 mL) was added dropwise under nitrogen and stirred at RT overnight. The reaction mixture was passed through basic alumina using 0-30% ether:hexane and triturated with pentane to get brownish solid. Yield: 300 mg. 8-Chloro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (50 mg, 0.282 mmol), Sodium tert-butoxide (81.2 mg, 0.846 mmol), and palladacycle [palladium (II)acetate+2-(di-t-butylphosphino)biphenyl) (10.7 mg, 0.0282 mmol)] were charged in a reaction bottle which was evacuated and back filled with nitrogen for 5 min. Dry toluene (1 mL) was added under nitrogen atmosphere. Finally, butylamine (14.43 mg, 0.197 mmol) was added and the contents heated at 100° C. overnight. The reaction mixture was filtered and the precipitate washed with EtOAc (2×25 mL). The filtrate was concentrated under vacuum and purified by reverse phase chromatography to yield 15 mg of free base. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, free base) δ (ppm): 7.60 (m, 2H), 7.12 (t, 2H), 6.96 (d, 1H), 6.90 (s, 1H), 6.72 (s, 1H), 6.68 (d, 1H), 3.76 (s, 2H), 3.10 (t, 2H), 2.95 (m, 2H), 2.84 (m, 2H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 1.96 (s, 3H), 1.82 (q, 2H), 1.45 (q, 2H), 0.95 (t, 3H).

Example 361 Preparation of (E)-N,2-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-8-amine (Compound No. 433)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-pyridin-4-yl-propenyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.050 g, 0.123 mmol), sodium tertbutoxide (0.140 g, 0.738 mmol), palladium acetate (0.010 g, 0.049 mmol) and 2-di-tertbutylphosphino-2′-4′-6′-triisopropylbiphenyl (0.031 g, 0.0735 mmol) were charged in a reaction bottle which was evacuated and back filled with nitrogen for 5 min. Dry toluene (2 mL) was added under nitrogen atmosphere. Finally, 2M methyl amine in THF (0.5 mL) was added and the contents heated at 100° C. overnight. The reaction mixture was filtered, precipitate washed with EtOAc (25 mL×2). The filtrate was concentrated under vacuum and purified by reverse phase chromatography to yield 15 mg of free base. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.58 (d, 2H), 7.62 (d, 2H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.04 (d, 1H), 6.76 (d, 2H), 4.40 (s, 2H), 3.60 (m, 2H), 3.10 (m, 2H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 2.80 (s, 3H), 2.02 (s, 3H).

Example 363 Preparation of (E)-4-(1-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-N-methylbenzamide (Compound No. 435)

Thionyl chloride (1.5 mL, 20.67 mmol) was added to a solution of 4-[2-(2,8-dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-hydroxy-1-methyl-ethyl]-N-methyl-benzamide (130 mg, 0.33 mmol) and the reaction mixture stirred at RT for 30 min. The solvent was removed under vacuum to obtain the crude as a foamy solid, which was dissolved in NMP (3 mL). The reaction mixture was stirred for 5 min. Powdered KOH (186 mg, 3.32 mmol) was added and the contents heated at 80° C. for 20 min. After completion of reaction, the reaction mixture was poured in water and the desired compound extracted with EtOAc (3×40 mL). The organic layer was washed with water, concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude product (100 mg) which was purified by reverse phase HPLC to yield 6.0 mg of 4-[2-(2,8-dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1methyl-vinyl]-N-methyl-benzamide as the free base. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 7.78 (d, 2H), 7.58 (d, 2H), 7.22 (s, 1H), 7.05 (m, 2H), 6.96 (s, 1H), 6.20 (bs, 1H), 4.0 (s, 2H), 3.16 (m, 2H), 3.05 (d, 3H), 2.90 (m, 2H), 2.70 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 1.99 (s, 3H).

Example 364 Preparation of (E)-4-(1-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)prop-1-en-2-yl)-N,N-dimethylbenzamide (Compound No. 436)

4-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-N,N-dimethylbenzamide (264 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL). Potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) was added followed by copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) and L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol). 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was added under nitrogen for 2 min. The reaction mixture was stirred at 85° C. overnight. Ice water (5 mL) was added and the resulting solid mass was filtered to obtain the crude compound which was purified on silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using 0-7% MeOH: DCM as eluent. Yield: 60 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.76 (d, 2H), 7.50 (d, 2H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.10 (m, 3H), 4.75 (d, 1H), 4.40 (d, 1H), 3.84 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.18 (m, 2H), 3.10 (d, 6H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.0 (s, 3H).

Example 365 Preparation of (E)-2-methyl-8-(4-methylpiperazin-1-yl)-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 437)

Palladium (II) acetate (314 mg, 1.4 mmol) and 2-(di-t-butylphosphino)biphenyl (418 mg, 1.4 mmol) were charged in a reaction bottle which was evacuated and backfilled with nitrogen. Toluene (10 mL) was added dropwise under nitrogen and stirred at RT overnight. The reaction mixture was passed through basic alumina using 0-30% ether:hexane and triturated with pentane to get brownish solid. Yield: 300 mg. 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (100 mg, 0.29 mmol), Sodium tert-butoxide (134 mg, 1.45 mmol), palladacycle (palladium (II)acetate+2-(di-t-butylphosphino)biphenyl) (26 mg, 0.058 mmol) was charged in a reaction bottle which was evacuated and back filled with nitrogen for 5 min. and dry toluene (2 mL) was added under nitrogen atmosphere. 1-Methylpiperazine (37 mg, 0.37 mmol) was added and heated at 100° C. overnight. The reaction mixture was filtered and washed with EtOAc (2×25 mL). The filtrate was concentrated under vacuum and purified on reverse phase chromatography. Yield: 30 mg. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 8.50 (d, 2H), 7.50 (d, 2H), 7.16 (s, 1H), 7.05 (d, 1H), 6.95 (m, 2H), 3.78 (s, 2H), 3.20 (m, 4H), 2.92 (m, 2H), 2.82 (m, 2H), 2.74 (m, 4H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H), 2.0 (s, 3H).

Example 366 Preparation of (Z)-4-(2-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-1-fluorovinyl)thiazole (Compound No. 438)

4-Bromothiazole (100 mg, 0.609 mmol), 5-ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole 163 mg, 0.731 mmol), dichlorobistrifluorophosphine palladium (12 mg, 0.01 mmol) and tetrabutylammonium fluoride trihydrate (575 mg, 1.827 mmol) were charged in a microwave vial and heated to 85° C. for 5 min in microwave oven. On completion of reaction (as observed by LCMS), the reaction mixture was poured into 20 mL water and compound extracted with EtOAc (3×50 mL). The combined organic layers were washed with water (2×50 mL) and dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum. The crude product (190 mg) obtained was purified by reverse phase chromatography to afford 7 mg of 5-(2-Fluoro-2-thiazol-4-yl-vinyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 8.80 (s, 1H), 7.60 (s, 1H), 7.38 (d, 1H), 7.18 (s, 1H), 7.05 (d, 1H), 6.22 (d, 1H), 3.80 (m, 2H), 3.0 (m, 4H), 3.62 (s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H).

Example 367 Preparation of (E)-N-methyl-N-(2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-8-yl)acetamide (Compound No. 439)

2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-N, 2-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-8-amine (23 mg) was charged in round bottom flask and acetic anhydride (0.7 mL) was added. The contents were stirred at RT for 30 min. The reaction mixture was basified with 1N NaOH and compound extracted with EtOAc (2×25 mL). The organic layer was concentrated under vacuum and recrystallized in DCM:Hexane (1:3) to yield 2.38 mg of desired compound. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 8.62 (d, 2H), 7.42 (d, 2H), 7.25 (s, 1H), 7.10 (dd, 2H), 6.98 (d, 1H), 3.70 (s, 2H), 3.30 (s, 3H), 2.82 (m, 4H), 3.60 (s, 3H), 2.04 (s, 3H), 1.90 (s, 3H).

Example 368 Preparation of (E)-N-(2-methoxyethyl)-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-8-amine (Compound No. 440)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-pyridin-4-yl-propenyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.100 g, 0.245 mmol), sodium tertbutoxide (0.283 g, 2.948 mmol), palladium acetate (0.010 g, 0.049 mmol) and 2-di-tertbutylphosphino-2′-4′-6′-triisopropylbiphenyl (0.031 g, 0.0735 mmol) were charged in a reaction bottle which was evacuated and back filled with nitrogen for 5 min. Dry toluene (2 mL) was added under nitrogen atmosphere. Finally, 2-methoxy-ethylamine (0.029 mL, 0.343 mmol) was added and the contents heated at 100° C. overnight. The reaction mixture was filtered and precipitate washed with EtOAc (2×25 mL). The filtrate was concentrated under vacuum and purified by reverse phase chromatography to yield 15 mg of free base. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 8.60 (d, 2H), 7.40 (d, 2H), 7.10 (s, 1H), 6.96 (d, 1H), 6.62 (d, 2H), 3.80 (m, 2H), 3.64 (t, 2H), 3.40 (s, 3H0, 3.30 (t, 2H), 2.95 (m, 2H), 2.82 (m, 2H), 2.62 (s, 3H), 2.0 (s, 3H).

Example 369 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-(6-methoxypyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 441)

5-(-1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-2-methoxypyridine (50 mg, 0.25 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL). Potassium phosphate (106 mg, 0.5 mmol) was added followed by copper (I) iodide (4 mg, 0.02 mmol) and L-proline (5 mg, 0.04 mmol). 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (50 mg, 0.25 mmol) was added under nitrogen (Nitrogen purged for 2 min). The reaction mixture was stirred at 85° C. overnight. Water (15 mL) was added and compound extracted with EtOAc (3×30 mL). The organic layer was concentrated under vacuum and purified through reverse phase chromatography. Yield: 3.87 mg (TFA salt). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.30 (s, 1H), 7.90 (d, 1H), 7.20 (s, 1H), 7.02 (d, 1H), 6.99 (d, 1H), 4.62 (m, 1H), 4.30 (m, 1H), 3.86 (s, 3H), 3.78 (m, 1H), 3.50 (m, 1H), 3.05 (m, 2H), 3.02 (s, 3H), 2.38 (s, 3H), 1.82 (s, 3H).

Example 370 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-N,N,2-trimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-8-amine (Compound No. 442)

8-Chloro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (100 mg, 0.282 mmol), sodium tertbutoxide (324 mg, 2.948 mmol), palladium acetate (12 mg, 0.049 mmol) and 2-di-tertbutylphosphino-2′-4′-6′-triisopropylbiphenyl (31 mg, 0.0735 mmol) were charged in a reaction bottle which was evacuated and back filled with nitrogen for 5 min. Anhydrous toluene (2 mL) was added under nitrogen atmosphere. Finally, dimethylamine hydrochloride (45.13 mg, 0.564 mmol) was added to the reaction mixture and contents heated at 100° C. overnight. The reaction mixture was filtered, and washed with EtOAc (2×25 mL). The filtrate obtained was concentrated under vacuum and purified on reverse phase chromatography to yield 34 mg of desired compound as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.78 (s, 1H), 7.58 (m, 2H), 7.38 (s, 2H), 7.10 (t, 2H), 6.90 (s, 1H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.80 (m, 1H), 3.58 (m, 1H), 3.28 (s, 6H), 3.10 (m, 2H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 1.80 (s, 3H).

Example 371 Preparation of (E) N (5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-8-yl)-N-methylacetamide (Compound No. 443)

5-(2-(4-Fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-N, 2-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-8-amine (30 mg) was charged in a round bottom flask. Acetic anhydride (0.5 mL) was added and the contents stirred at RT for 30 min. The reaction mixture was then basified with 1N NaOH and extracted with EtOAc (2×25 mL). The organic layer was concentrated under vacuum and purified through reverse phase column chromatography to yield 19.38 mg of the desired compound. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.70 (m, 2H), 7.50 (s, 1H), 7.36 (d, 1H), 7.18 (m, 3H), 7.0 (s, 1H), 4.78 (d, 1H), 4.41 (d, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.62 (m, 1H), 3.28 (s, 3H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 1.96 (s, 3H), 1.82 (s, 3H).

Example 372 Preparation of (E)-N-butyl-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-8-amine (Compound No. 444)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-pyridin-4-yl-propenyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.100 g, 0.245 mmol), sodium tertbutoxide (0.283 g, 2.948 mmol), palladium acetate (0.010 g, 0.049 mmol) and 2-di-tertbutylphosphino-2′-4′-6′-triisopropylbiphenyl (0.031 g, 0.0735 mmol) were charged in a reaction bottle which were evacuated and back filled with nitrogen for 5 min. Dry toluene (2 mL) was added under nitrogen atmosphere. Finally, N-butyl amine (0.034 mL, 0.343 mmol) was added to the reaction mixture and contents heated at 100° C. overnight. The reaction mixture was filtered and precipitate washed with EtOAc (2×25 mL). The filtrate was concentrated under vacuum and purified by reverse phase chromatography to yield 91 mg of desired compound as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.82 (d, 2H), 8.24 (d, 2H), 7.74 (d, 2H), 7.50 (d, 1H), 7.38 (d, 1H), 4.50 (m, 2H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.70 (m, 1H), 3.42 (m, 2H), 3.26 (m, 2H), 3.18 (s, 3H), 2.10 (s, 3H), 1.76 (m, 2H), 1.46 (m, 2H), 1.0 (t, 3H).

Example 373 Preparation of (E)-2-methyl-8-(piperidin-1-yl)-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 445)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-pyridin-4-yl-propenyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.100 g, 0.245 mmol), sodium tertbutoxide (0.283 g, 2.948 mmol), palladium acetate (0.010 g, 0.049 mmol) and 2-di-tertbutylphosphino-2′-4′-6′-triisopropylbiphenyl (0.031 g, 0.0735 mmol) were charged in a reaction bottle which was evacuated and back filled with nitrogen for 5 min. Dry toluene (2 mL) was added under nitrogen atmosphere. Finally, piperidine (0.0339 mL, 0.343 mmol) was added and the contents heated at 100° C. overnight. The reaction mixture was filtered and precipitate washed with EtOAc (2×25 mL). The filtrate was concentrated under vacuum and purified on reverse phase chromatography to yield 25 mg of the desired compound as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.82 (d, 2H), 8.30 (d, 2H), 7.95 (s, 1H), 7.76 (s, 1H), 7.59 (d, 1H), 7.50 (d, 1H), 4.80 (m, 1H), 4.50 (m, 1H), 3.92 (m, 1H), 3.76-3.60 (m, 5H), 3.25 (m, 2H), 3.18 (s, 3H), 2.10 (s, 3H), 2.08 (m, 4H), 1.82 (m, 2H).

Example 374 Preparation of (E)-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-8-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 446)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-pyridin-4-yl-propenyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.100 g, 0.245 mmol), sodium tertbutoxide (0.283 g, 2.948 mmol), palladium acetate (0.010 g, 0.049 mmol) and 2-di-tertbutylphosphino-2′-4′-6′-triisopropylbiphenyl (0.031 g, 0.0735 mmol) were charged in a reaction bottle which was evacuated and back filled with nitrogen for 5 min. Dry toluene (2 mL) was added under nitrogen atmosphere. Finally, pyrrolidine (0.033 mL, 0.343 mmol) was added to the reaction mixture and the contents heated to 100° C. overnight. The reaction mixture was filtered and precipitate washed with EtOAc (2×25 mL). The filtrate was concentrated under vacuum and purified by reverse phase chromatography to yield 25 mg of desired compound as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.78 (d, 2H), 8.18 (d, 2H), 7.68 (s, 1H), 7.50 (s, 1H), 7.39 (d, 1H), 7.24 (d, 1H), 4.78 (m, 1H), 4.45 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.74-3.60 (m, 5H), 3.24 (m, 2H), 3.18 (s, 3H), 2.24 (m, 4H), 2.10 (s, 3H).

Example 375 Preparation of (E)-N-cyclopropyl-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-8-amine (Compound No. 447)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-pyridin-4-yl-propenyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.100 g, 0.245 mmol), sodium tertbutoxide (0.283 g, 2.948 mmol), palladium acetate (0.010 g, 0.049 mmol) and 2-di-tertbutylphosphino-2′-4′-6′-triisopropylbiphenyl (0.031 g, 0.0735 mmol) were charged in a reaction bottle which was evacuated and back filled with nitrogen for 5 min. Dry toluene (2 mL) was added under nitrogen atmosphere. Finally, cyclopropylamine (24.3 mg, 0.343 mmol) was added to the reaction mixture and the contents heated to 100° C. overnight. The reaction mixture was filtered and precipitate washed with EtOAc (2×25 mL). The filtrate was concentrated under vacuum and purified by reverse phase chromatography to yield 2.74 mg of compound as the oxalate salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.60 (d, 2H), 7.82 (d, 2H), 7.44 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 7.04 (s, 1H), 6.90 (d, 1H), 4.60 (m, 2H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.18 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.50 (m, 1H), 2.05 (s, 3H), 0.78 (m, 2H), 0.58 (m, 2H).

Example 376 Preparation of (E)-N-cyclobutyl-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-8-amine (Compound No. 448)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-pyridin-4-yl-propenyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.100 g, 0.245 mmol), sodium tertbutoxide (0.283 g, 2.948 mmol), palladium acetate (0.010 g, 0.049 mmol) and 2-di-tertbutylphosphino-2′-4′-6′-triisopropylbiphenyl (0.031 g, 0.0735 mmol) were charged in a reaction bottle which was evacuated and back filled with nitrogen for 5 min. Dry toluene (2 mL) was added under nitrogen atmosphere. Finally, cyclobutylamine (24.3 mg, 0.343 mmol) was added to the reaction mixture and the contents heated to 100° C. overnight. The reaction mixture was filtered and precipitate washed with EtOAc (2×25 mL). The filtrate was concentrated under vacuum and purified by reverse phase chromatography to yield 34 mg of desired compound as the TFA salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.80 (d, 2H), 8.10 (d, 2H), 7.62 (d, 2H), 7.44 (d, 1H), 7.30 (d, 1H), 4.50 (m, 2H), 4.18 (m, 1H), 3.85 (m, 1H), 3.70 (m, 1H), 3.26 (m, 2H), 3.18 (s, 3H), 2.38 (m, 4H), 2.10 (s, 3H), 2.02-1.85 (m, 2H).

Example 377 Preparation of (E)-2-(2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3b]indol-8-ylamino)ethanol (Compound No. 449)

(2-Methoxy-ethyl)-[2-methyl-5-(2-pyridin-4-yl-propenyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-8-yl]-amine (350 mg, 0.9 mmol) was dissolved in DCM and the reaction mixture was cooled in dry ice (−78° C.). Boron tribromide (699 mg, 2.7 mmol), diluted with DCM (3 mL) was added to the solution dropwise at −78° C. After completion of this addition, the reaction mixture was allowed to come to RT gradually, and was stirred at RT for 1 h. After completion of reaction (reaction monitored by TLC & LCMS), the reaction mixture was concentrated under vacuum and the crude compound was basified with 1N NaOH solution. The compound was extracted with EtOAc (3×60 mL). The combined organic layers were dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum under vacuum to obtain the crude compound which was recrystallized in diethyl ether (20 mL) to yield 170 mg of 2-[2-Methyl-5-(2-pyridin-4-yl-propenyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-8-ylamino]-ethanol. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.90 (d, 2H), 8.40 (d, 2H), 7.84 (s, 1H), 7.78 (s, 1H), 7.52 (d, 1H), 7.42 (d, 1H), 4.84 (m, 1H), 4.50 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.80 (t, 2H), 3.68 (m, 1H), 3.58 (t, 2H), 3.40-3.30 (m, 2H), 3.18 (s, 3H), 2.17 (s, 3H).

Example 378 Preparation of (E)-N,N,2-trimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-8-amine (Compound No. 450)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-pyridin-4-yl-propenyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.100 g, 0.245 mmol), sodium tertbutoxide (0.283 g, 2.948 mmol), palladium acetate (0.010 g, 0.049 mmol) and 2-di-tertbutylphosphino-2′-4′-6′-triisopropylbiphenyl (0.031 g, 0.0735 mmol) were charged in a reaction bottle which was evacuated and back filled with nitrogen for 5 min. Dry toluene (2 mL) was added under nitrogen atmosphere. Finally, di-methylamine hydrochloride (0.040 g, 0.490 mmol) was added and the contents heated at 100° C. overnight. The reaction mixture was filtered and precipitate washed with EtOAc (2×25 mL). The filtrate was concentrated under vacuum and purified by reverse phase chromatography to yield 15 mg of free base. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 8.90 (d, 2H), 8.38 (d, 2H), 7.99 (s, 1H), 7.80 (s, 1H), 7.56 (m, 2H), 4.50 (m, 2H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.70 (m, 1H), 3.38 (s, 6H), 3.22 (m, 2H), 3.18 (s, 3H), 2.16 (s, 3H).

Example 379 Preparation of (Z)-5-(2-fluoro-2-(thiophen-2-yl)vinyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 451)

5-Ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (165 mg, 0.736 mmol), 2-bromo-thiophene (100 mg, 0.613 mmol), dichlorobis (triphenylphosphine) palladium (II) (13 mg, 0.018 mmol) and TBAF.3H₂O (580 mg, mmol) were added in a microwave tube. The reaction mixture was heated at 80° C. for 5 min. It was then cooled to RT. The reaction was monitored by TLC and LCMS. The reaction mixture was diluted with water (100 mL) and the compound extracted with EtOAc (3×30 mL). The combined organic layers were washed with water and dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to yield the crude product which was purified on neutral alumina (Eluent: 0-10%, Hexane/Ethyl acetate). The compound was subjected to reverse phase HPLC to obtain fluoro compound (7 mg) as a liquid. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 7.38 (d, 2H), 7.18 (dd, 1H), 7.05 (m, 2H), 6.10 (d, 1H), 3.64 (s, 2H), 2.94 (m, 2H), 2.84 (m, 2H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H).

Example 380 Preparation of (E)-4-(1-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2,6-difluorophenol (Compound No. 452)

5-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-1,3-difluoro-2-methoxybenzene (223 mg, 1.2 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) was added followed by copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) and L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol). 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was added and the mixture purged with nitrogen for 2 min. The reaction mixture was stirred at 85° C. overnight. Water was added and the solid mass was filtered under vacuum. The crude product was purified on silica gel (100-200 mesh) using 0-10% MeOH: DCM as eluent. Yield: 52 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.24 (d, 2H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 7.0 (s, 1H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.82 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.18 (s, 3H), 3.14 (m, 2H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 1.90 (s, 3H).

Example 381 Preparation of (Z)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-phenyl-2-(pyridin-4-yl)vinyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 453)

4-(2-Bromo-1-phenylvinyl)pyridine (310 mg, 1.1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) was added followed by copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) and L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol). 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was added and the mixture purged with nitrogen for 2 min. The reaction mixture was stirred at 85° C. overnight. Water was added and the solid mass was filtered under vacuum. The crude product was purified on silica gel (100-200 mesh) using 0-10% MeOH:DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase HPLC. Yield: 28 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, free base) δ (ppm): 8.40 (d, 2H), 7.39 (m, 3H), 7.32 (d, 2H), 7.16 (s, 1H), 7.10 (s, 1H), 6.90 (m, 4H), 3.62 (s, 2H), 2.68 (m, 2H), 2.50 (m, 5H), 2.39 (s, 3H).

Example 382 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-(6-methoxypyridin-3-yl)prop-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 454)

5-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-2-methoxypyridine (113 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL) and potassium phosphate (212 mg, 1 mmol) was added followed by copper (I) iodide (9 mg, 0.05 mmol) and L-proline (11.5 mg, 0.1 mmol). 8-chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (110 mg, 0.5 mmol) was added and the mixture purged with nitrogen for 2 min. The reaction mixture was stirred at 85° C. overnight. Water was added and the solid mass was filtered under vacuum. The crude product was purified on silica gel (100-200 mesh) using 0-4% MeOH:DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase HPLC. Yield: 15 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.40 (s, 1H), 7.98 (d, 1H), 7.56 (s, 1H), 6.22 (s, 2H), 7.0 (s, 1H), 6.84 (d, 1H), 4.50 (s, 2H), 3.96 (s, 3H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.18 (m, 2H), 3.12 (s, 3H), 1.96 (s, 3H).

Example 383 Preparation of (E)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-phenyl-2-(pyridin-4-yl)vinyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 455)

4-(2-Bromo-1-phenylvinyl)pyridine (310 mg, 1.1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) was added followed by copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) and L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol). 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was added and the mixture purged with nitrogen for 2 min. The reaction mixture was stirred at 85° C. overnight. Water was added and the solid mass was filtered under vacuum. The crude product was purified on silica gel (100-200 mesh) using 0-10% MeOH:DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase HPLC. Yield: 15 mg. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 8.60 (d, 2H), 7.30-7.15 (m, 7H), 7.0 (m, 3H), 6.90 (d, 1H), 3.70 (s, 2H), 2.70 (m, 2H), 2.50 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.36 (m, 2H).

Example 384 Preparation of (E)-5-(2-(3,5-difluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 456)

5-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-1,3-difluoro-2-methoxybenzene (223 mg, 1.2 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) was added followed by copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) and L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol). 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was added and the mixture purged with nitrogen for 2 min. The reaction mixture was stirred at 85° C. overnight. Water was added and the solid mass was filtered under vacuum. The crude product was purified on silica gel (100-200 mesh) using 0-10% MeOH:DCM as eluent. Yield: 63 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.32 (s, 1H), 7.30 (s, 2H), 7.08 (m, 3H), 4.72 (m, 1H), 4.39 (m, 1H), 4.0 (s, 3H), 3.82 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.20-3.10 (m, 5H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 1.90 (s, 3H).

Example 385 Preparation of (E)-3-(1-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-N,N-dimethylbenzamide (Compound No. 457)

Thionyl chloride (0.8 mL, 11.02 mmol) was added to a solution of 3-[2-(2,8-dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-hydroxy-1-methyl-ethyl]-N,N-dimethylbenzamide (500 mg, 1.23 mmol) and the reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 1 h. The solvent was removed under vacuum to obtain the crude product as a foamy solid which was dissolved in NMP (5 mL). The mixture was stirred for 5 min and powdered KOH (553 mg, 9.87 mmol) was added, and the mixture heated at 85° C. for 45 min. After completion of reaction, the mixture was poured into water and extracted with EtOAc (3×30 mL). The organic layer washed with water, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude product (600 mg) which was purified by reverse phase HPLC to yield 3-[2-(2,8-dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-1-methyl-vinyl]-N,N-dimethyl-benzamide (30 mg) as free base. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.76 (d, 1H), 7.70 (s, 1H), 7.52 (t, 1H), 7.44 (d, 1H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.18-7.06 (m, 3H), 4.58 (m, 2H),

Example 386 Preparation of (Z)-3-(1-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-N,N-dimethylbenzamide (Compound No. 458)

4-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-N,N-dimethylbenzamide (264 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) was added followed by copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) and L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol). 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was added and the mixture purged with nitrogen for 2 min. The reaction mixture was stirred at 85° C. overnight. Water was added and the solid mass was filtered under vacuum. The crude compound was purified on silica gel (100-200 mesh) using 0-7% MeOH:DCM as eluent. Yield: 60 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.30 (m, 2H), 7.20 (s, 2H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 6.95 (d, 1H), 6.86 (s, 1H), 6.80 (s, 1H), 4.58 (m, 1H), 4.30 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.10 (m, 1H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.92 (s, 3H), 2.80 (m, 2H), 2.50 (s, 3H), 2.39 (s, 3H), 2.36 (s, 3H),

Example 387 Preparation of (E)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(4-(methylthio)phenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 459)

(4-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)phenyl)(methyl)sulfane (241 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) was added followed by copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) and L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol). 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was added and the mixture purged with nitrogen for 2 min. The reaction mixture was stirred at 85° C. overnight. Water was added and the solid mass was filtered under vacuum. The crude compound was purified on silica gel (100-200 mesh) using 0-3% MeOH:DCM as eluent. Yield: 72 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.59 (d, 2H), 7.30 (m, 3H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 7.0 (s, 1H), 4.60 (m, 2H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.28 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.54 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 1.96 (s, 3H).

Example 388 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-phenyl-2-(pyridin-4-yl)vinyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 460)

4-(2-Bromo-1-phenylvinyl)pyridine (310 mg, 1.1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) was added followed by copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) and L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol). 8-Chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (220 mg, 1 mmol) was added and the mixture purged with nitrogen for 2 min. The reaction mixture was stirred at 85° C. overnight. Water was added and the solid mass was filtered under vacuum. The crude compound was purified on silica gel (100-200 mesh) using 0-10% MeOH:DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase HPLC. Yield: 20 mg (TFA salt). ¹HNMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.78 (d, 2H), 7.64 (d, 2H), 7.40-7.28 (m, 5H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 6.92 (d, 2H), 4.65 (m, 1H), 4.0 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.05 (m, 1H), 2.84 (s, 3H), 2.76 (m, 2H).

Example 389 Preparation of (Z)-8-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-phenyl-2-(pyridin-4-yl)vinyl)-2,3,4,5-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 461)

4-(2-Bromo-1-phenylvinyl)pyridine (310 mg, 1.1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) was added followed by copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) and L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol). 8-Chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (220 mg, 1 mmol) was added and the mixture purged with nitrogen for 2 min. The reaction mixture was stirred at 85° C. overnight. Water was added and the solid mass was filtered under vacuum. The crude compound was purified on silica gel (100-200 mesh) using 0-10% MeOH:DCM as eluent. The compound was further purified through reverse phase HPLC. Yield: 21 mg (TFA salt). ¹HNMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.58 (d, 2H), 7.50 (m, 2H), 7.36-7.18 (m, 7H), 7.08 (d, 1H), 6.90 (d, 1H), 4.65 (m, 1H), 4.05 (m, 1H), 3.80 (m, 1H), 3.30 (m, 2H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.80 (m, 1H).

Example 390 Preparation of (E)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(4-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 462)

1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-4-(methylsulfonyl)benzene (241 mg, 0.9 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) was added followed by copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) and L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol). 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was added and the mixture purged with nitrogen for 2 min. The reaction mixture was stirred at 85° C. overnight. Water was added and the solid mass was filtered under vacuum. The crude compound was purified on silica gel (100-200 mesh) using 0-3% MeOH:DCM as eluent. Yield: 140 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.02 (d, 2H), 7.90 (d, 2H), 7.32 (s, 1H), 7.19 (s, 1H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 4.56 (m, 2H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.18 (m, 5H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 1H), 2.04 (s, 3H).

Example 392 Preparation of 4-(8-chloro-5-(2-hydroxy-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propyl)-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-2(5H)-yl)-1-(4-fluorophenyl)butan-1-one (Compound No. 464)

To a solution of 4-(8-chloro-1,3,4,5-tetrahydro-pyrido (4,3-b) indole-2-yl)-1-(4-fluro phenyl)-butan-1-one (500 mg, 1.35 mmol) in 5 mL DMF, was added sodium hydride (60% dispersion in oil) (162 mg, 4.05 mmol) and the reaction mixture stirred for 5 min. 4-(2-Methyl oxaranyl)pyridine (237 g, 1.75 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was again stirred at RT for 16 h. The reaction mixture was poured into ice water and compound extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer was washed with water, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude product, which was purified by column chromatography on silica gel (100-200 mesh) [Eluent: 4% MeOH and DCM) to afford 180 mg pure product. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.40 (d, 2H), 8.10 (m, 2H), 7.56 (d, 2H), 7.42 (s, 1H), 7.25 (t, 2H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 6.98 (d, 1H), 4.58 (m, 2H), 4.30 (m, 2H), 3.70 (m, 3H), 3.40 (m, 2H), 3.30-3.10 (m, 3H), 2.30 (m, 2H), 1.64 (s, 3H).

Example 393 Preparation of 2-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-1,1-diphenylethanol (Compound No. 465)

To a solution of 2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido (4,3-b) indole (800 g, 4.0 mmol) in DMF (8 mL), sodium hydride [60% dispersion in oil] (480 mg, 12.0 mmol) was added and the reaction mixture stirred for 5 min. 2,2-Diphenyl oxirane (1.176 g, 6.0 mmol) was added dropwise at RT and reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 16 h. The reaction mixture was poured into ice water and the compound extracted with EtOAc (3×200 mL). The organic layer was washed with water, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude product. The crude compound was crystallized in ether (50 mL) to obtain 950 mg of white solid product as the free base. 100 mg free base was converted to HCL salt. ¹H NMR (DMSO, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.50 (d, 2H), 7.30 (m, 3H), 7.20 (m, 5H), 7.10 (s, 1H), 7.05 (d, 1H), 6.70 (d, 1H), 6.08 (bs, 1H), 4.80 (m, 2H), 4.50 (m, 1H), 4.18 (m, 1H), 3.18 (m, 2H), 2.82 (s, 3H), 2.80 (m, 2.30 (s, 3H),

Example 394 Preparation of 2-(8-chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-1,3-diphenylethanol (Compound No. 466)

To a solution of 8-chloro 2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido (4,3-b) indole (800 g, 3.6 mmol) in 8 mL DMF, was added sodium hydride [60% dispersion in oil] (436 mg, 10.9 mmol) and the reaction mixture was stirred for 5 min. 2,2-Diphenyl oxirane (1.06 g, 5.4 mmol) was added dropwise at RT and reaction mixture stirred at RT for 16 h. The reaction mixture was poured into ice water and the desired compound extracted with EtOAc (3×200 mL). The organic layer was washed with water, dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude product, which was crystallized in ether (50 mL) to obtain 950 mg of white solid product as the free base. 100 mg free base was converted to HCL salt. ¹H NMR (DMSO, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.50 (m, 2H), 7.40 (s, 1H), 7.30 (m, 3H), 7.22 (m, 5H), 7.14 (d, 1H), 6.82 (d, 1H), 6.15 (bs, 1H), 4.82 (d, 2H), 4.55 (m, 1H), 4.38 (m, 1H), 4.20 (m, 1H), 3.56 (m, 1H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 2.86 (s, 3H).

Example 395 Preparation of 2-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-methyl-1-phenylpropan-1-ol (Compound No. 467)

Phenyl magnesium bromide (1M solution in THF) (3.7 mL, 3.69 mmol) was added dropwise at −70° C. to a stirred solution of 2-(2,8-dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-methyl-propionaldehyde (200 mg, 0.73 mmol) in THF (30 mL). The contents were stirred at RT for 16 h, diluted with EtOAc (50 mL) and water (40 mL). The layers were separated and the aqueous layer was again extracted with EtOAc (2×50 mL). The combined organic extracts were dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain crude compound (300 mg), which was purified by column chromatography on silica gel (100-200 mesh) [Eluent: 0-5% MeOH in DCM] to afford 2-(2,8-dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-2-methyl-1-phenyl-propan-1-ol (120 mg) which was repurified by prep. TLC to yield free base (25 mg) compound. The free base was converted into the HCl salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.80 (m, 1H), 7.25-7.0 (m, 6H), 6.80 (d, 1H), 5.58 (s, 1H), 4.40 (m, 2H), 3.50 (m, 2H), 2.95 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.0 (s, 3H), 1.64 (s, 3H).

Example 396 Preparation of 2-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-1-ol (Compound No. 468)

Phenyl magnesium bromide (1M solution in THF) (6.24 mL, 6.24 mmol) was added dropwise at −70° C. to a stirred solution of 2-(2,8-dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-propionaldehyde (400 mg, 1.56 mmol) in THF (40 mL). The contents were stirred at RT for 16 h, diluted with EtOAc (75 mL) and water (60 mL). The layers were separated and the aqueous layer was again extracted with EtOAc (2×75 mL). The combined organic extracts were dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain the crude compound (500 mg) which was purified by reverse phase HPLC to afford 2-(2,8-dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)1-phenyl-propan-1-ol as the TFA salt (65 mg). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.56 (m, 1H), 7.20-7.0 (m, 6H), 6.90 (m, 1H), 5.18 (d, 1H), 4.50 (m, 2H), 4.30-4.10 (m, 2H), 3.58 (m, 2H), 3.10 (m, 1H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 1.82 (d, 3H).

Example 397 Preparation of (S)-1-(6-chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 469)

This optically active compound was obtained by chiral HPLC separation of Compound No. 182. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.58 (d, 2H), 7.40 (d, 2H), 7.28 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 6.98 (dd, 1H), 5.10 (m, 1H), 4.20 (m, 1H), 3.80 (d, 1H), 3.58 (d, 1H), 3.20 (m, 1H), 2.90 (m, 1H), 2.75 (m, 2H), 2.58 (s, 3H), 1.42 (s, 3H).

Example 398 Preparation of (R)-1-(6-chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)propan-2-ol (Compound No. 470)

This optically active compound was obtained by chiral HPLC separation of Compound No. 182. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.58 (d, 2H), 7.40 (d, 2H), 7.28 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 6.98 (dd, 1H), 5.10 (m, 1H), 4.20 (m, 1H), 3.80 (d, 1H), 3.58 (d, 1H), 3.20 (m, 1H), 2.90 (m, 1H), 2.75 (m, 2H), 2.58 (s, 3H), 1.42 (s, 3H).

Example 399 Preparation of Certain Intermediates Preparation of 1-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-4-fluorobenzene

4-Fluoro benzaldehyde (1.23 g, 0.00995 mol) was dissolved in DCM (120 mL). Carbon tetrabromide (6.6 g, 0.0199 mol) and triphenylphosphine (10.42 g, 0.0398 mol) were added. The mixture was stirred at RT for 3 h. Insoluble material was removed by filtration, and the filtrate was concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified through column chromatography (100% pentane in silica 100-200 mesh, Diameter of column—5.0 cm, height of silica—approx. 5 inch) to provide the desired compound as a yellow colored oil (1.1 g, 44% yield).

Preparation of 5-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2-methylpyridine

6-Methylnicotinaldehyde (1.0 g, 0.00826 mol) was dissolved in DCM (100 mL). Carbon tetrabromide (5.48 g, 0.0165 mol) and triphenylphosphine (8.66 g, 0.033 mol) was added to the solution followed by stirring at RT for 3 h. Insoluble material was removed by filtration, and the filtrate was concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified through column chromatography (8% EtOAc:hexane in silica 100-200 mesh, diameter of column—5.0 cm, height of silica—approx. 5 inch) to provide the desired compound as a yellow colored oil (1.6 g, 70% yield).

Preparation of 4-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2-fluoro-1-methoxybenzene

3-Fluoro-4-methoxy benzaldehyde (0.5 g, 0.00324 mol) was dissolved in DCM (30 mL). Carbon tetrabromide (2.15 g, 0.0064 mol) and triphenylphosphine (3.4 g, 0.013 mol) were added to the solution followed by stirring at RT for 3 h. Insoluble material was removed by filtration, and the filtrate was concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified through column chromatography (2% ethylacetate:hexane in silica 100-200 mesh) to provide the desired compound as a yellow colored oil (0.6 g, 60% yield).

Preparation of 5-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2-propylpyridine

6-Propylnicotinaldehyde (0.2 g, 0.00134 mol) was dissolved in DCM (4 mL). Carbon tetrabromide (0.887 g, 0.00268 mol) and triphenylphosphine (1.4 g, 0.00536 mol) were added to the solution followed by stirring at RT overnight. After insoluble matter was removed by filtration, the filtrate was concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified through column chromatography (3% ethylacetate:hexane in silica 100-200 mesh, diameter of column—5.0 cm, height of silica—approx. 5 inch) to provide the desired compound as a yellow colored oil (0.05 g).

Preparation of 1-(bromoethynyl)-4-fluorobenzene

A mixture of 1-(2,2-dibromo-vinyl)-4-fluoro-benzene (0.6 g, 0.00214 mol), potassium tertbutoxide (0.48 g, 0.00428 mol) and toluene (6 mL) were heated at 80° C. for 4 h. After completion of reaction, the reaction mixture was cooled to RT, diluted with water (15 mL), and extracted with EtOAc (3×50 mL). The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduce pressure to obtain product as a yellow oil (0.3 g, 70%).

Preparation of 5-(bromoethynyl)-2-methylpyridine

A mixture of 5-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2-methylpyridine (0.10.9 g, 0.00393 mol), potassium tertbutoxide (0.88 g, 0.00787 mol) and toluene (13 mL) were heated at 80° C. for 4 h. After completion of reaction, the reaction mixture was cooled to RT, diluted with water (15 mL), and extracted with EtOAc (3×50 mL). The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduce pressure to obtain product as a yellow oil (0.25 g, 32.4%).

Preparation of 4-(bromoethynyl)-2-fluoro-1-methoxybenzene

A mixture of 1-(2,2-dibromo-vinyl)-3-fluoro-4-methoxybenzene (0.5 g, 0.00161 mol), potassium tertbutoxide (0.36 g, 0.00322 mol) and toluene (6 mL) were heated at 80° C. for 4 h. After completion, the reaction mixture was cooled to RT, diluted with water (15 mL), and extracted with EtOAc (3×50 mL). The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduce pressure to obtain product as a yellow oil (0.3 g, 81%).

Preparation of 1-(bromoethynyl)-4-chlorobenzene

To a solution of 1-chloro-4-(2,2-dibromovinyl)benzene (9.60 g, 32.7 mmol) in toluene was added potassium tertbutoxide (7.35 g, 65.6 mmol) at RT. The reaction mixture was heated at 80° C. for 3 h. The reaction was monitored by LCMS and TLC. The reaction mixture was diluted with water and extracted with EtOAc. The organic was dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure to give the desired product (5.5 g).

Preparation of 5-(bromoethynyl)-2-propylpyridine

A mixture of 5-(2,2-dibromovinyl)-2-propylpyridine (0.8 g, 0.0026 mol), potassium tertbutoxide (1.2 g, 0.0105 mol) and toluene (14 mL) were heated at 80° C. for 4 h. After completion of reaction, the reaction mixture was cooled to RT, diluted with water (15 mL), and extracted with EtOAc (3×50 mL). The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduce pressure to obtain product as a yellow oil (0.55 g).

Preparation of 2,8-dimethyl-5-((triisopropylsilyl)ethynyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole

To a stirred solution of 2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (10 g, 0.05 mol) and copper sulfate (1.24 g, 0.005 mol) in toluene (200 mL) was added potassium carbonate (13.8 g, 0.1 mol) and 1,10 phenanthroline (1.8 g, 0.01 mol). The reaction mixture was stirred for 5 min at RT. (Bromoethynyl)triisopropylsilane (14.4 g, 0.055 mol) was added to the reaction mixture at the same temperature. After completion of addition, the reaction mixture was stirred overnight at 80° C. The reaction was monitored by TLC. After completion of reaction, the mixture was cooled to RT, diluted with water (500 mL), and extracted with EtOAc (3×500 mL). The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and solvent was removed under reduced pressure. The crude product was purified by column chromatography (1% MeOH:DCM in silica 100-200 mesh, diameter of column—5 cm, height of silica—approx. 5 inch) to provide the desired compound as a dark brown colored oil (9.5 g, 50% yield).

Preparation of 8-chloro-2-methyl-5-((triisopropylsilyl)ethynyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole

To a stirred solution of 8-chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (10 g, 0.0454 mol) and copper sulfate (1.13 g, 0.00454 mol) in toluene (100 mL) was added potassium carbonate (12.5 g, 0.0909 mol) and 1,10 phenanthroline (1.6 g, 0.00909 mol). The reaction mixture was stirred for 5 min at RT. Bromoethynyl triisopropylsilane (13.0 g, 0.0499 mol) was added to the reaction mixture at the same temperature. After completion of addition, the reaction mixture was stirred overnight at 80° C., After completion of reaction (monitored by TLC), the mixture was cooled to RT, diluted with water (500 mL), and extracted with EtOAc (3×500 mL). The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and solvent was removed under pressure. The product was purified by column chromatography (1% MeOH:DCM in silica 100-200 mesh, diameter of column—5 cm, height of silica—approx. 5 inch) to provide the desired compound as a dark brown colored oil (8.0 g, 44% yield).

Preparation of 5-ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole

To a cooled solution of 2,8-dimethyl-5-((triisopropylsilyl)ethynyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (10 g, 0.0236 mol) in THF (100 mL) was added tetrabutylammonium fluoride solution (1.0M in THF, 49 mL, 0.0526 mol) at 0° C. over 15 min. The reaction mixture was stirred for 1 h at 0° C., and the reaction monitored by TLC. After completion of reaction, the mixture was diluted with water (100 mL) and extracted with EtOAc (3×100 mL). The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduce pressure to obtain product as a brown colored oil (9.4 g).

Preparation of 8-chloro-5-ethynyl-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole

To a cooled solution of 8-chloro-2-methyl-5-((triisopropylsilyl)ethynyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (8.0 g, 0.02 mol) in THF (100 mL) was added tetrabutylammonium fluoride solution (1.0M in THF, 40 mL, 0.04 mol) at 0° C. over 15 min. The reaction mixture was stirred for 1 h at 0° C., after completion of reaction (monitored by TLC), the mixture was diluted with water (100 mL) and extracted with EtOAc (3×100 mL). The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduce pressure to obtain product as a brown colored oil (7.0 g).

Example 400 Preparation of (E)-1-methyl-4-(1-(8-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-prop-1en-2-yl)pyridinium (Compound No. 471)

Zinc-copper couple (800 mg) was dissolved in THF and a crystal of iodine was added. The reaction mixture was stirred at 85° C. until the brown color disappeared. A mixture of 2,2,2-trichloroethyl 3,4-dihydro-8-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole-2(5)-carboxylate (400 mg, 0.83 mmol) and methylene iodide (447 mg, 1.67 mmol) was added at the same temperature and the mixture was heated at 85° C. overnight. The reaction mixture was filtered under vacuum and the filtrate purified by reverse phase HPLC to obtain 2,2,2-trichloroethyl 3,4-dihydro-8-methyl-5-(2-(N-methyl-pyridin-4-yl)prop-1-enyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole-2(5H)-carboxylate (130 mg TFA salt). To the purified compound (130 mg) was added acetic acid (2 mL) and zinc dust (35 mg). The reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 2 days. MeOH (10 mL) was added and the mixture filtered under vacuum. The filtrate residue was washed with additional MeOH (2×10 mL) and concentrated under reduced pressure. The product obtained was purified on reverse phase chromatography. Yield: 25 mg (TFA salt). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt): δ (ppm): 8.8 (d, 2H), 8.3 (d, 2H), 7.8 (s, 1H), 7.4 (s, 1H), 7.1 (s, 2H), 4.5 (s, 2H), 4.4 (s, 3H), 3.6 (bs, 2H), 3.1 (bs, 2H), 2.4 (s, 3H), 2.2 (s, 3H).

Example 401 Preparation of (E)-3-(1-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-N-methylbenzamide (Compound No. 472)

3-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-N-methylbenzamide (202 mg, 0.8 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) was added followed by copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) and L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol). 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was added and the mixture purged with nitrogen for 2 min. The reaction mixture was stirred at 85° C. overnight. Water was added and the solid mass was filtered under vacuum. The crude product was purified on silica (100-200 mesh) using 0-7% MeOH:DCM as eluent. Yield: 101 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.1 (s, 1H), 7.8 (m, 2H), 7.6 (t, 1H), 7.3 (s, 1H), 7.15 (d, 1H), 7.1 (d, 1H), 7.05 (s, 1H), 4.6 (bs, 2H), 3.7 (bs, 2H), 3.1 (bs, 5H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.4 (s, 3H), 2.0 (s, 3H).

Example 402 Preparation of (E)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 473)

1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-3-(methylsulfonyl)benzene (189 mg, 0.7 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) was added followed by copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) and L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol). 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was added and the mixture purged with nitrogen for 2 min. The reaction mixture was stirred at 85° C. overnight. Water was added and the solid mass was filtered under vacuum. The crude product was purified on silica (100-200 mesh) using 0-6% MeOH:DCM as eluent. Yield: 158 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.19 (s, 1H), 8.0 (m, 2H), 7.72 (t, 1H), 7.32 (s, 1H), 7.16 (m, 2H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 4.58 (m, 2H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.19 (s, 3H), 3.16 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.44 (s, 3H), 2.04 (s, 3H).

Example 403 Preparation of (E)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(3-(methylthio)phenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 474)

(3-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)phenyl)(methyl)sulfane (194 mg, 0.8 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (5 mL) and potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol) was added followed by copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) and L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol). 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was added and the mixture purged with nitrogen for 2 min. The reaction mixture was stirred at 85° C. overnight. Water was added and the solid mass was filtered under vacuum. The crude product was purified on silica (100-200 mesh) using 0-4% MeOH:DCM as eluent. Yield: 160 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.50 (s, 1H), 7.38 (m, 2H), 7.30 (s, 2H), 7.10 (m, 2H), 6.99 (s, 1H), 4.50 (m, 2H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.10 (m, 4H), 2.56 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 1.95 (s, 3H)

Example 404 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((4-fluorophenyl)ethynyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 475)

To a stirred solution of 8-chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.2 g, 0.00090 mol) and copper sulfate (0.026 g, 0.00009 mol) in toluene (5 mL) was added potassium carbonate (0.25 g, 0.0018 mol) and 1,10 phenanthroline (0.032 g, 0.000018 mol). The reaction mixture was stirred for 5 min at RT. A solution of 1-bromoethynyl-4-fluoro-benzene (0.199 g, 0.00099 mol) in toluene (2 mL) was added to the reaction mixture. After addition, the reaction mixture was stirred for 2 h at 80° C. After completion of reaction (monitored by TLC), solvent was removed under reduced pressure, and the product obtained was purified by column chromatography (2% MeOH:DCM as eluent on silica (100-200 mesh), diameter of column—5.0 cm, height of silica—approx. 5 inch) to provide the desired compound as a yellow colored oil (0.05 g, 16% yield). The free base was converted to its oxalate salt by treatment with oxalic acid (1 equiv) in THF. ¹H NMR (DMSO, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.65 (m, 4H), 7.30 (m, 3H), 4.20 (m, 2H), 3.40 (m, 2H), 3.10 (m, 2H), 2.80 (s, 3H).

Example 405 Preparation of 2,8-dimethyl-5-((6-methylpyridin-3-yl)ethynyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 476)

To a stirred solution of 2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.14 g, 0.00070 mol) and copper sulfate (0.017 g, 0.00007 mol) in toluene (4 mL) was added potassium carbonate (0.193 g, 0.0014 mol) and 1,10-phenanthroline (0.025 g, 0.000014 mol). The reaction mixture was stirred for 5 min at RT. A solution of 5-(bromoethynyl)-2-methylpyridine (0.150 g, 0.00077 mol) in toluene (2 mL) was added to the reaction mixture. After addition, the reaction mixture was stirred for 12 h at 80° C. After completion of reaction (monitored by TLC), solvent was removed under reduced pressure, and the crude product was purified by column chromatography (4% MeOH:DCM as eluent on silica (100-200 mesh), diameter of column—5.0 cm, height of silica—approx. 5 inch). The product was further purified by preparative TLC to give the desired compound as a yellow colored oil (0.010 g, 4.5% yield). 2,8-Dimethyl-5-((6-methylpyridin-3-yl)ethynyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.01 g, 0.0000317 mol) was dissolved in THF (1.0 mL). A solution of oxalic acid dihydrate (0.004 g, 0.0000317 mol) in THF (1 mL) was added and stirred for 30 min at RT. The precipitate was filtered and dried to give the oxalate salt as a white solid (0.006 g, 46.8% yield). ¹H NMR (DMSO, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.70 (s, 1H), 7.90 (d, 1H), 7.60 (d, 1H), 7.38 (d, 2H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 4.20 (m, 2H), 3.40 (m, 2H), 3.10 (m, 2H), 2.80 (s, 3H), 2.50 (s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H).

Example 406 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)ethynyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 477)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (100 mg, 0.45 mmol) was dissolved in toluene (5 mL). Copper sulfate (23 mg, 0.090 mmol), 1,10-phenanthroline (33 mg, 0.18 mmol), potassium phosphate (192 mg, 0.90 mmol), and 4-(bromoethynyl)-2-fluoro-1-methoxybenzene (113 mg, 0.49 mmol) were added, and the mixture was flushed with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated at 80° C. overnight (16 h). Product was detected by LCMS. The reaction mixture was filtered through Celite, and washed with DCM. The combined organic layer was concentrated under reduced pressure to obtain product, which was purified by column chromatography using silica gel and 60-80% EtOAc in hexane as eluent, and repurified by preparative TLC to obtain product as a brown solid (20 mg). ¹H NMR (DMSO, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.70 (d, 2H), 7.58 (d, 1H), 7.42 (d, 1H), 7.38 (d, 1H), 7.25 (m, 1H), 4.20 (m, 2H), 3.85 (s, 3H), 3.40 (m, 2H), 3.10 (m, 2H), 2.80 (s, 3H).

Example 407 Preparation of 5-((4-fluorophenyl)ethynyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 478)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1.00 mmol) was dissolved in toluene (5 mL). The mixture was stirred for 10 min, and copper sulfate (24.9 mg, 0.01 mmol) and 1,10-phenanthroline (36 mg, 0.2 mmol) were added, and the mixture further stirred for 10 min. To this was added 1-(bromoethynyl)-4-fluorobenzene compound (220 mg, 1.1 mmol) dissolved in toluene and the mixture purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated at 80-85° C. overnight. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC and LCMS. The toluene was evaporated under reduced pressure and the crude product purified by column chromatography using silica (100-200 mesh) and 0-50% Ethylacetate:hexane as eluent. ¹H NMR (DMSO, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.70 (m, 2H), 7.55 (d, 1H), 7.30 (m, 3H), 7.20 (d, 1H), 4.30 (m, 2H), 3.16 (m, 4H), 2.90 (s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H).

Example 408 Preparation of methyl 5-((4-fluorophenyl)ethynyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole-8-carboxylate (Compound No. 479)

Methyl 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole-8-carboxylate (122 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in toluene (3 mL) and stirred for 10 min. Potassium carbonate (138 mg, 1.0 mmol), copper sulfate (124 mg, 0.05 mmol) and 1,10-phenanthraline (18 mg, 0.1 mmol) were added. The reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min. A solution of 1-(bromoethynyl)-4-fluorobenzene (110 mg, 0.11 mmol) in toluene (2 mL) was added to the reaction mixture, which was heated to 80-85° C. overnight. TLC monitoring showed 10% conversion of reactant to product. As such, more of 1-(bromoethynyl)-4-fluorobenzene (110 mg, 0.5 mmol) was added and heating was continued for 10-12 h. Toluene was removed under reduced pressure to obtain the product, which was purified by column chromatography using silica (100-200 mesh) and 0-5% DCM:MeOH as eluent. The pure compound was converted to its oxalate salt. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.30 (d, 1H), 8.05 (m, 1H), 7.78 (d, 1H), 7.62 (m, 2H), 7.20 (m, 2H), 3.95 (s, 3H), 3.80 (m, 2H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.35 (m, 2H), 3.15 (s, 3H).

Example 409 Preparation of 8-chloro-5-((4-chlorophenyl)ethynyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 480)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (220 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in toluene (8-10 mL). Copper sulfate (50 mg, 0.2 mmol), 1,10-phenanthroline (72 mg, 0.4 mmol), potassium phosphate (425 mg, 2 mmol) and 1-(bromoethynyl)-4-chlorobenzene (237 mg, 1.1 mmol) was added and the mixture flushed with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated at 80° C. overnight (16 h). Product was detected by LCMS. The reaction mixture was filtered through Celite, washed with DCM. The combined organic layer was concentrated under vacuum to obtain product, which was purified by column chromatography using silica and 60-80% EtOAc in hexane as eluent to obtain product (120 mg) as a brown semi solid. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.52-7.42 (m, 3H), 7.38-7.32 (m, 2H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.23-7.20 (d, 1H), 3.62 (s, 2H), 3.02-2.97 (m, 2H), 2.96-2.86 (m 2H), 2.60 (s, 3H).

Example 410 Preparation of 5-((4-chlorophenyl)ethynyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 481)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in toluene (8-10 mL). Copper sulfate (50 mg, 0.2 mmol), 1,10-phenanthroline (72 mg, 0.4 mmol), potassium phosphate (425 mg, 2 mmol) and 1-(bromoethynyl)-4-chlorobenzene (237 mg, 1.1 mmol) was added and the mixture flushed with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated at 80° C. overnight (16 h). Product was detected by LCMS. The reaction mixture was filtered through Celite, washed with DCM. The combined organic layer was concentrated under vacuum to obtain product, which was purified by column chromatography (Silica gel-60-80% EtOAc in hexane) to obtain product (38 mg) as a yellow solid. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.52-7.40 (m, 3H), 7.36-7.30 (m, 2H), 7.20 (s, 1H), 7.12-7.09 (d, 1H), 3.77 (s, 2H), 3.06-2.94 (m, 4H), 2.62 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H).

Example 411 Preparation of 5-((4-fluorophenyl)ethynyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole-8-carboxylic acid (Compound No. 482)

Methyl 5-((4-fluorophenyl)ethynyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole-8-carboxylate (0.280 g) was dissolved in MeOH (10 mL) and added 10% aq. KOH solution (5 mL). The reaction mixture was heated at 50° C. for 48 h. Progress of the reaction was monitored by TLC and LCMS. The solvent was evaporated and the residue acidified with 1% aq. HCl solution. The solid was filtered and the residue was washed with water (2-3×). The product was washed with hexane. The product was obtained as a white solid. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.30 (d, 1H), 8.10 (m, 1H), 7.70 (m, 3H), 7.20 (m, 2H), 4.60 (m, 2H), 3.80 (m, 2H), 3.38 (m, 2H), 3.15 (s, 3H).

Example 412 Preparation of 5-((4-fluorophenyl)ethynyl)-N,2-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole-8-carboxamide (Compound No. 483)

5-(4-Fluoro-phenylethynyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole-8-carboxylic acid (20 mg, 0.0044 mmol) was dissolved in DMF and EDCI.HCl (42.17 mg, 0.22 mmol) was added. Methyl amine (2.0 M) in THF (0.0446 mL, 0.0089 mmol) was added. The reaction mixture was stirred at RT overnight. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC and LCMS. The DMF was evaporated under vacuum and the product purified by HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.05 (s, 1H), 7.82 (d, 1H), 7.62 (m, 3H), 7.20 (t, 2H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 3.70 (m, 1H), 3.38 (m, 4H), 3.20 (s, 3H), 2.90 (s, 3H).

Example 413 Preparation of 8-chloro-2-methyl-5-((6-methylpyridin-3-yl)ethynyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 484)

8-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (56 mg, 0.255 mmol) was dissolved in toluene and copper sulfate (6.3 mg. 0.0255 mmol) was added, followed by 1,10-phenanthroline (9.18 mg, 0.051 mmol) and potassium carbonate (70.38 mg, 0.51 mmol). 5-(Bromoethynyl)-2-methylpyridine (50 mg, 0.255 mmol) dissolved in toluene was added and the mixture purged with nitrogen in it. The reaction mixture was heated at 85° C. overnight. The reaction was monitored by TLC and LCMS. Toluene was concentrated under vacuum and the residue washed with water. The crude product was purified by column chromatography using 0-3% MeOH:DCM as eluent, to give the product as a yellow solid. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.65 (s, 1H), 7.70 (d, 1H), 7.48 (d, 1H), 7.38 (s, 1H), 7.25 (d, 1H), 7.16 (d, 1H), 3.60 (s, 2H), 2.96 (m, 2H), 2.80 (m, 2H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.56 (s, 3H).

Example 414 Preparation of 5-((3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl)ethynyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 485)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (100 mg, 0.49 mmol) was dissolved in toluene (5 mL), and copper sulfate (24 mg, 0.099 mmol) was added, followed by 1,10-phenanthroline (35 mg, 0.19 mmol), potassium phosphate (0.211 mg, 0.99 mmol) and 4-(bromoethynyl)-2-fluoro-1-methoxybenzene (125 mg, 0.54 mmol), and the mixture flushed with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated at 80° C. overnight (16 h). Product was detected by LCMS. The reaction mixture was filtered through Celite, and washed with DCM. The combined organic layer was concentrated under vacuum to obtain product which was purified by column chromatography (60-80% EtOAc in hexane as eluent), and repurified by preparative TLC to obtain product as a brown solid (13 mg). ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.42 (d, 1H), 7.25 (m, 2H), 7.18 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 6.92 (t, 1H), 3.95 (s, 3H), 3.62 (s, 2H), 2.95 (m, 2H), 2.85 (m, 2H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H).

Example 415 Preparation of 8-chloro-2-methyl-5-((6-(trifluoromethyl)pyridin-3-yl)ethynyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 486)

A mixture of 5-bromo-2-(trifluoromethyl)pyridine (4.6 g, 0.02 mol), triphenylphosphine (0.053 g, 0.00020 mol), triethylamine (1.7 mL, 0.01227 mol) and 8-chloro-5-ethynyl-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (1 g, 0.00409 mol) was dissolved in acetonitrile (30 mL) and heated by microwave at 80° C. for 30 min. The reaction was monitored by TLC. After completion of reaction, the mixture was cooled to RT and diluted with water (100 mL). The mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×100 mL), and the organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure to obtain product. Product was purified by column chromatography using silica (100-200 mesh) and 3% MeOH:DCM as eluent, diameter of column—5 cm, height of silica—approx. 5 inch) then further purified by preparative TLC to give the desired compound as a yellow colored solid (0.06 g, 4% yield). The product (0.02 g, 0.000051 mol) was dissolved in THF (1.0 mL). A solution of oxalic acid dihydrate (0.007 g, 0.000055 mol) in THF (2 mL) was added and stirred for 30 min at RT. The precipitate was filtered and dried to give oxalate salt as an off-white solid (0.015 g, 60% yield). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.90 (s, 1H), 8.25 (d, 1H), 7.85 (d, 1H), 7.70 (d, 1H), 7.60 (s, 1H), 7.40 (d, 1H), 4.50 (m, 2H), 3.80 (m, 2H), 3.40 (m, 1H), 3.18 (m, 1H), 3.10 (s, 3H).

Example 416 Preparation of 8-chloro-2-methyl-5-((6-propylpyridin-3-yl)ethynyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 487)

To a stirred solution of 8-chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.2 g, 0.00090 mol) and copper sulfate (0.023 g, 0.00009 mol) in toluene (15 mL) was added potassium carbonate (0.25 g, 0.0018 mol) and 1,10 phenanthroline (0.033 g, 0.000018 mol). The reaction mixture was stirred for 5 min at RT. A solution of 5-(bromoethynyl)-2-propylpyridine (0.221 g, 0.00099 mol) in toluene (5 mL) was added to the reaction mixture. The reaction mixture was stirred for 18 h at 80° C. The reaction was monitored by TLC. After completion of reaction, water (30 mL) was added, and the mixture extracted with EtOAc (3×30 mL). The organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, solvent was removed under reduced pressure, and the crude product purified by column chromatography using silica (100-200 mesh) and 3% MeOH:DCM as eluent, diameter of column—5.0 cm, height of silica—approx. 5 inch) to provide the desired compound as a yellow colored oil (0.06 g, 18% yield). 8-Chloro-2-methyl-5-((6-propylpyridin-3-yl)ethynyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (0.056 g, 0.000153 mol) was dissolved in THF (1.0 mL). A solution of oxalic acid dihydrate (0.02 g, 0.000153 mol) in THF (2 mL) was added and stirred for 30 min at RT. The precipitate was filtered and dried to give the oxalate salt as an off-white solid (0.050 g, 80% yield). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.65 (s, 1H), 7.95 (d, 1H), 7.62 (d, 1H), 7.60 (s, 1H), 7.38 (dd, 2H), 4.78 (m, 2H), 4.50 (s, 2H), 3.76 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.80 (m, 2H), 1.76 (m, 2H), 1.0 (t, 3H).

Example 417 Preparation of 4-((2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)ethynyl)-2-fluoro-N-methylbenzamide (Compound No. 488)

4-Bromo-2-fluoro-N-methyl-benzamide (100 mg, 0.5 mmol), 5-ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,4a,5,9b-hexahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (123 mg, 0.5 mmol), dichlorobis(triphenylphosphine)palladium(II) (17 mg, 0.25 mmol) and TBAF.3H₂O (475 mg, 1.5 mmol) were mixed and stirred at 80° C. for 30 min under nitrogen. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC and LCMS. The mixture was cooled to RT, water was added, and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer was washed with water (1×10 mL), dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure. The crude product obtained was purified by column chromatography using silica (100-200 mesh) and 0-2% MeOH:DCM as eluent. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 8.10 (t, 1H), 7.42 (d, 1H), 7.36 (d, 1H), 7.22 (d, 1H), 7.18 (m, 2H), 6.70 (bs, 1H), 3.95 (m, 2H), 3.20 (m, 4H), 3.05 (d, 3H), 2.80 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H).

Example 418 Preparation of 3-((2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)ethynyl)-N,N-dimethylaniline (Compound No. 489)

(3-Bromo-phenyl)-dimethylamine (100 mg, 0.5 mmol), 5-ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,4a, 5,9b-hexahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (123 mg, 0.5 mmol), dichlorobis(triphenylphosphine)palladium(II) (17 mg, 0.25 mmol) and TBAF.3H₂O (275 mg, 1.5 mmol) were mixed and stirred at 80° C. for 30 min under nitrogen. The progress of reaction was monitored by TLC and LCMS. The mixture was cooled to RT, water was added, and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer was washed with water (1×10 mL), dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum. The crude product was purified by column chromatography using silica gel (100-200 mesh), neutralizing the silica gel with aq. Ammonia, and using 0-2% MeOH:DCM as eluent. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.50 (d, 1H), 7.30 (m, 1H), 7.18 (d, 2H), 7.05 (d, 2H), 6.90 (m, 1H), 4.78 (m, 1H), 4.10 (m, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.40 (m, 2H), 3.20 (m, 1H), 3.0 (s, 9H), 2.42 (s, 3H),

Example 419 Preparation of 2,8-dimethyl-5-(phenylethynyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 490)

A mixture of 5-ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (171 mg, 0.76 mmol), bromo benzene (100 mg, 0.6 mmol), dichlorobistriphenylphosphine palladium(II) (12 mg, 0.018 mmol) and TBAF.3H₂O (567 mg, 1.8 mmol) were heated 80° C. for 5 min by microwave. After completion of reaction (monitored by TLC), the mixture was poured into water (10 mL) and extracted with EtOAc (2×20 mL). The organic layer was dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum and the crude product purified by column chromatography using silica gel (100-200 mesh) and 1% MeOH in DCM as eluent, followed by reverse phase chromatography to obtain 8 mg of 2,8-dimethyl-5-phenylethynyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.55 (d, 2H), 7.50 (d, 1H), 7.40-7.31 (m, 3H), 7.20 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 3.70 (s, 2H), 3.0 (t, 2H), 2.90 (t, 2H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.45 (s, 3H).

Example 420 Preparation of 2,8-dimethyl-5-(thiophen-3-ylethynyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol (Compound No. 491)

A mixture of 5-ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (165 mg, 0.736 mmol), 3-bromothiophene (100 mg, 0.613 mmol), TBAF.3H₂O (580 mg, 1.84 mmol), and dichlorobis(triphenylphosphine)palladium (II) (13 mg, 0.018 mmol) were heated by microwave at 80° C. for 5 min. The reaction was monitored by TLC and LCMS. The reaction mixture was diluted with water (30 mL) and extracted with EtOAc (3×50 mL). The combined organic layers were washed with water (2×50 mL), dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, and concentrated under vacuum. The crude product obtained was purified by HPLC to yield 12.2 mg of 2,8-dimethyl-5-thiophen-3-ylethynyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.50 (s, 1H), 7.40 (d, 1H), 7.38 (d, 1H), 7.20 (m, 2H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 3.68 (s, 2H), 2.98 (t, 2H), 2.90 (t, 2H), 2.58 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H).

Example 421 Preparation of 5-(furan-3-ylethynyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 492)

A mixture of 5-ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (180 mg, 0.81 mmol), 3-bromofuran (100 mg, 0.68 mmol), dichlorobis(triphenylphosphine)palladium (II) (14 mg, 0.02 mmol) and TBAF.3H₂O (642 mg, 2.0 mmol) was heated at 80° C. for 5 min by microwave After completion of reaction (monitored by TLC), the mixture was poured into water (10 mL) and extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The organic layer was dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain product, which was purified by reverse phase chromatography to obtain 10 mg of 5-furan-3-ylethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR, (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.70 (s, 1H), 7.50-7.4 (m, 2H), 7.20 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 6.55 (s, 1H), 3.68 (s, 2H), 3.0-2.90 (m, 4H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H).

Example 422 Preparation of 2,8-dimethyl-5-(thiophen-2-ylethynyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol (Compound No. 493)

5-Ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (165 mg, 0.736 mm 2-bromothiophene (100 mg, 0.613 mmol), TBAF.3H₂O (580 mg, 1.84 mmol), and dichlorobis (triphenylphosphine)palladium (II) (13 mg, 0.018 mmol) were placed in microwave vial and heated by microwave at 80° C. for 5 min. The reaction was monitored by TLC and LCMS. The reaction mixture was diluted with water (30 mL) and extracted with EtOAc (3×50 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with water (2×50 mL), dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate, and concentrated under vacuum to obtain product, which was subjected to preparative HPLC to yield 20 mg of 2,8-dimethyl-5-thiophen-3-ylethynyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 7.40 (d, 1H), 7.30-7.25 (m, 2H), 7.19 (s, 1H), 7.10-6.0 (m, 2H), 3.65 (s, 2H), 2.95 (t, 2H), 2.90 (t, 2H), 2.59 (s, 3H), 2.45 (s, 3H).

Example 423 Preparation of 5-((6-methoxypyridin-3-yl)ethynyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 494)

A mixture of 5-ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (538 mg, 2.4 mmol), 5-bromo-2-methoxy-pyridine (376 mg, 2.0 mmol), dichlorobistriphenylphosphine palladium(II) (42 mg, 0.059 mmol) and TBAF.3H₂O (1.8 g, 5.71 mmol) was heated at 80° C. for min by microwave (reaction temperature increased to 120° C.). After completion of reaction (monitored by TLC & LCMS), the mixture was poured into water (40 mL) and extracted with EtOAc (3×40 mL). The organic layer was washed with water (3×30 mL) and dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum. The product was purified by reverse phase chromatography to obtain 52 mg of 5-[1-fluoro-2,2-bis-(6-methoxy-pyridin-3-yl)-vinyl]-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole, and 41 mg of 5-(6-methoxy-pyridin-3-ylethynyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. 5% of the vinyl fluoride was also isolated. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 8.36 (s, 1H), 7.70 (d, 1H), 7.42 (d, 1H), 7.18 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 6.72 (d, 1H), 3.98 (s, 3H), 3.65 (s, 2H), 2.95 (m, 4H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H).

Example 424 Preparation of 2,8-dimethyl-5-(pyridin-4-ylethynyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 495)

A mixture of 5-ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (138 mg, 0.6 mmol), 4-bromopyridinehydrochloride (100 mg, 0.51 mmol), dichlorobistriphenylphosphine palladium (II) (10 mg, 0.015 mmol) and TBAF.3H₂O (481 mg, 1.5 mmol) was heated at 50° C. (observed exothermic temperature was 99° C.) for 5 min by microwave. After completion of reaction (monitored by TLC&LCMS), the mixture was poured into water (20 mL), saturated bicarbonate was added, and the mixture extracted with EtOAc (3×20 mL). The organic layer was washed with water (2×20 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain 170 mg of 2,8-dimethyl-5-pyridin-4-ylethynyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 8.58 (d, 2H), 7.42 (d, 1H), 7.34 (d, 2H), 7.20 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 3.62 (s, 2H), 3.08 (m, 2H0, 3.92 (m, 2H), 2.60 (s, 3H0, 2.42 (s, 3H).

Example 425 Preparation of 5-((6-cyclopropylpyridin-3-yl)ethynyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 496)

A mixture of 5-ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (102 mg, 0.45 mmol), 5-bromo-2-cyclopropyl-pyridine (75 mg, 0.38 mmol), dichlorobistriphenylphosphine palladium(II) (7 mg, 0.0114 mmol) and TBAF.3H₂O (359 mg, 1.14 mmol) was heated at 80° C. for 5 min by microwave. After completion of reaction (monitored by TLC), the mixture was poured into water (10 mL) and extracted with EtOAc (2×20 mL). The organic layer was dried over sodium sulfate, concentrated under vacuum to obtain crude product, which was purified by reverse phase chromatography to obtain 9 mg of 5-(6-cyclopropyl-pyridin-3-ylethynyl)-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 8.58 (s, 1H), 7.62 (d, 1H), 7.40 (d, 1H), 7.18 (s, 1H), 7.08 (m, 2H), 3.65 (s, 2H), 2.90 (m, 4H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.05 (m, 1H), 1.05 (m, 4H).

Example 426 Preparation of 2,8-dimethyl-5-((1-methyl-1H-imidazol-5-yl)ethynyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 497)

A mixture of 5-ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (166 mg, 0.74 mmol), 5-bromo-1-methyl-1H-imidazole (100 mg, 0.62 mmol), dichlorobistriphenyl phosphinepalladium (II) (13 mg, 0.018 mmol) and TBAF.3H₂O (586 mg, 1.86 mmol) was heated at 80° C. (observed exothermic temperature was 120° C.) for 5 min by microwave. After completion of reaction (monitored by TLC&LCMS), the mixture was poured into water (20 mL) and saturated bicarbonate was added. The mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×20 mL), the organic layer was washed with water (2×20 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain 16 mg of 2,8-dimethyl-5-(3-methyl-3H-imidazol-4-ylethynyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 7.56 (s, 1H), 7.38 (d, 2H), 7.20 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 3.72 (s, 3H), 3.66 (s, 2H), 2.92 (m, 4H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.44 (s, 3H).

Example 427 Preparation of 4-((2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)ethynyl)thiazole (Compound No. 498)

A mixture of 5-ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (163 mg, 0.731 mmol), 4-bromo-thiazole (100 mg, 0.60 mmol), dichlorobistriphenylphosphinepalladium(II) (12 mg, 0.01 mmol) and TBAF.3H₂O (575 mg, 1.82 mmol) was heated at 80° C. (observed exothermic temperature was 120° C.) for 5 min by microwave. After completion of reaction (monitored by TLC&LCMS), the mixture was poured into water (20 mL) and saturated bicarbonate was added. The mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×20 mL), the organic layer was washed with water (3×50 mL), dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under vacuum to obtain 10 mg of 2,8-dimethyl-5-thiazol-4-ylethynyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, free base) δ (ppm): 8.80 (s, 1H), 7.56 (s, 1H), 7.44 (d, 2H), 7.18 (s, 1H), 7.08 (d, 1H), 3.64 (s, 2H), 3.0 (m, 2H), 2.90 (m, 2H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H).

Example 428 Preparation of 2-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-1-phenylethanol (Compound No. 176)

2-(2,8-Dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethanone (168 mg, 0.5 mmol) was dissolved in 10 mL of anhydrous THF. Phenyl magnesium bromide (1.5 mL, 1.5 mmol) was added dropwise at RT under nitrogen atmosphere. The reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 1 h. Water (3 mL) was added to the reaction mixture and the product was extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers were washed with water and dried over sodium sulfate. The solvent was evaporated under reduced pressure to obtain the crude compound, which was purified by preparative HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.40-7.20 (m, 7H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 7.95 (m, 2H), 7.85 (m, 1H), 6.75 (m, 1H), 4.80 (m, 2H), 4.60 (m, 1H), 4.30 (m, 1H), 3.62 (m, 2H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.80-2.60 (m, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H).

Example 429 Preparation of 8-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-3-yl)cyclohex-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 166)

2,8-Dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 1.0 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2 mL). Sodium hydride (50%) (60 mg, 2.5 mmol) was added in portions at 0° C. and the reaction mixture was stirred at RT for 15 min. A solution of 5-(1,2-dibromocyclohexyl)-2-methylpyridine (99 mg, 1.3 mmol) in DMF (2 mL) was added dropwise over 10 min and stirring was continued for additional 2 h at RT. The reaction mixture was quenched with ice water and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer was washed with brine, dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and evaporated under reduced pressure. The crude product was purified by preparative TLC to afford 13 mg of title compound. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.21 (d, 1H), 7.13-7.05 (m, 2H), 6.83-6.81 (m, 2H), 3.60-3.48 (m, 2H), 2.90-2.86 (m, 4H), 2.53 (s, 2H), 2.41-2.36 (m, 6H), 2.05-1.81 (m, 6H), 1.26-1.20 (m, 3H).

Example 430 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(3,3-dimethyl-2-(pyridin-4-yl)but-1-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 286)

8-Chloro-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2-methyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (220 mg, 1 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (3 mL). Potassium phosphate (424 mg, 2 mmol), copper (I) iodide (19 mg, 0.1 mmol) and L-proline (23 mg, 0.2 mmol) were added. A solution of 4-(1-bromo-3,3-dimethylbut-1-en-2-yl)pyridine (294 mg, 1.5 mmol) in DMF (2 mL) was added dropwise, the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen, and heated at 85° C. overnight. The DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure and the reaction mixture was diluted with water. The resultant precipitate was filtered and purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) using 0-8% MeOH:DCM as eluant. The compound was further purified by HPLC. Yield: 77.03 mg. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.30 (d, 2H), 7.30 (m, 4H), 7.18 (d, 1H), 6.90 (s, 1H) 4.50 (m, 1H), 4.20 (m, 1H), 3.80 (m, 1H), 3.50 (m, 1H), 3.15 (m, 2H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 1.35 (s, 9H).

Example 431 Preparation of 2,8-dimethyl-5-(pyrimidin-4-ylethynyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 499)

5-Ethynyl-2,8-dimethyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (100 mg, 0.466 mmol) and 4-bromopyrimidine (126 mg, 0.797 mmol) were dissolved in triethylamine (1.5 mL), and the solution was purged with nitrogen. Dichlorobis (triphenylphosphine) palladium (12.5 mg, 0.017 mmol) and copper iodide (6.7 mg, 0.035 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was purged again with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated by microwave at 40° C. for 90 min. The reaction mixture was quenched with 30 mL water and extracted with EtOAc (3×15 mL). The combined organic layers were dried over sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure to obtain crude product. The crude product was purified with column chromatography (silica gel: 100-200 mesh, eluent 0-10% MeOH in DCM) to obtain 25 mg product. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, freebase) δ (ppm): 9.17 (s, 1H_), 8.76 (d, 1H), 7.57 (d, 1H), 7.40 (d, 1H), 7.18 (m, 2H), 3.64 (s, 2H), 3.06 (d, 2H), 2.98 (d, 2H), 2.61 (s, 3H), 2.43 (s, 3H).

Example 432 Preparation of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-(3-(pyridin-2-yl)prop-2-ynyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3b]indole (Compound No. 500)

A mixture of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-(prop-2-ynyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole[(p-tolylhydrazine hydrochloride (600 mg, 3.7 mmol), propargyl bromide (80 wt % solution in toluene, 0.34 mL, 3.7 mmol), triethyl amine (1.5 mL, 11.3 mmol) and N-methyl-4-piperidone hydrochloride (316 mg, 2.1 mmol) were taken in ethanol (15 mL) to obtain 80 mg of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-(prop-2-ynyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole after purification on silica gel (230-400 mesh) chromatography eluting with MeOH-DCM gradient) (150 mg, 0.6 mmol)], 2-bromopyridine (0.06 mL, 0.6 mmol), dichlorobis(triphenylphosphine) palladium (8 mg, 0.012 mmol), CuI (1 mg, 0.006 mmol), and triethylamine (0.01 mL 0.071 mmol) in acetonitrile (5 mL) was heated at 80° C. for 1.5 h to obtain 108 mg of 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-5-(3-(pyridin-2-yl)prop-2-ynyl)-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole after purification by reverse-phase chromatography (C-18, 500 mm×50 mm, Mobile Phase A=0.05% TFA in water, B=0.05% TFA in acetonitrile, Gradient: 10% B to 80% B in 30 min, injection vol. 5 mL). ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.45-8.40 (d, 1H), 7.80-7.70 (t, 1H), 7.45-7.40 (m, 1H), 7.30-7.25 (t, 1H), 7.25 (s, 2H), 7.10-7.00 (d, 1H), 5.60 (s, 2H), 4.60-4.55 (d, 1H), 4.25-4.20 (d, 2H), 3.85-3.75 (d, 1H), 3.65-3.40 (m, 2H), 3.00 (s, 3H), 2.30 (s, 3H).

Example 433 Preparation of (E)-ethyl 4-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-3-phenylbut-2-enoate (Compound No. 347)

2-(2,8-Dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-1-phenylethanone (100 mg, 3 mmol) was dissolved in 3 mL of toluene. (Carbethoxymethylene)triphenylphosphorane (200 mg, 0.56 mmol) was added and the reaction mixture was heated at 100° C. overnight. Solvent was removed under reduced pressure and the residue was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200) eluting with 2% MeOH-DCM. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.70 (m, 1H), 7.50 (m, 2H), 7.38 (m, 3H), 7.20 (m, 1H), 7.10 (m, 1H), 5.30 (m, 1H), 4.80 (s, 2H), 3.90 (m, 2H), 2.90 (m, 2H), 2.80 (m, 2H), 2.60 (s, 3H), 2.42 (s, 3H), 2.0 (m, 2H), 1.0 (t, 3H).

Example 434 Preparation of (Z)-5-(8-chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-4(4-fluorophenyl)pent-3-en-1-ol (Compound No. 348)

2-(8-Chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-1-(4-fluorocyclohexa-1,2,3,5-tetraenyl)ethanol (1 g, 25 mmol) was dissolved in 10 mL 25% sulfuric acid and heated at 110° C. for 4 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT, diluted with water and the resultant solid was filtered, washed with water, and diethylether. The solid was purified by reverse phase HPLC, and separated from the regioisomeric Compound No. 349. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.50 (m, 1H), 7.38 (d, 1H), 7.15 (m, 3H), 7.0 (m, 1H), 6.80 (m, 2H), 5.80 (m, 1H), 5.22 (m, 2H), 4.60 (m, 1H), 4.25 (m, 1H), 3.80 (m, 2H), 3.45 (m, 2H), 3.15 (m, 2H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.65 (m, 2H).

Example 435 Preparation of (E)-5-(8-chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-4-(4-fluorophenyl)pent-3-en-1-ol (Compound No. 349)

2-(8-Chloro-2-methyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-1-cyclopropyl-1-(4-fluorocyclohexa-1,2,3,5-tetraenyl)ethanol (1 g, 25 mmol) was dissolved in 10 mL 25% sulfuric acid and and heated at 110° C. for 4 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT, diluted with water and the resultant solid was filtered, washed with water, and diethylether. The solid was purified by reverse phase HPLC, and separated from the regioisomeric Compound No. 348. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, HCl salt) δ (ppm): 7.48 (d, 1H), 7.40 (m, 1H), 7.15 (m, 1H), 7.0 (m, 4H), 5.60 (m, 1H), 5.0 (m, 2H), 4.80 (m, 2H), 4.60 (m, 1H), 4.30 (m, 1H), 3.80 (m, 1H), 3.42 (m, 2H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 3.0 (m, 1H), 2.10 (m, 2H).

Example 436 Preparation of (E)-ethyl 4-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-3-(4-fluorophenyl)but-2-enoate (Compound No. 350)

2-(2,8-Dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethanone (500 mg, 1.5 mmol) was dissolved in toluene. Phosphorane (1 g, 2.8 mmol) was added and the reaction mixture was heated at 100° C. overnight. Solvent was removed under reduced pressure and the residue was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200) eluting with 0-100% EtOAc-hexane. The product was re-purified by reverse phase HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.30 (m, 2H), 7.20 (m, 2H), 7.08 (m, 3H), 5.2 (m, 1H), 5.05 (s, 2H), 4.70 (m, 2H), 4.38 (m, 1H), 3.90 (q, 2H), 3.80 (m, 1H), 3.55 (m, 1H), 3.10 (m, 1H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H), 1.0 (t, 3H).

Example 437 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)hex-2-enyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 351)

This product was isolated as a regioisomer from Example 160 (Compound No. 208). ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.50 (m, 2H), 7.20 (m, 1H), 7.10 (m, 3H), 6.90 (m, 1H), 5.40 (m, 1H), 5.0 (s, 2H), 4.20 (m, 3H), 3.40 (m, 2H), 2.90 (m, 2H), 2.80 (t, 3H), 2.40 (m, 1H), 1.80 (m, 1H), 1.20 (m, 1H), 0.7 (t, 3H).

Example 438 Preparation of (E)-4-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-3-(4-fluorophenyl)but-2-enoic acid (Compound No. 352)

Ethyl 4-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)-3-(4-fluorophenyl)but-2-enoate (100 mg, 0.246 mmol) was dissolved in NMP (1 mL). Powdered KOH (100 mg) was added and the reaction mixture was heated at 100° C. overnight. The reaction mixture was cooled to RT and acidified with conc. HCl (pH 5-6). The product was isolated by reverse phase chromatography. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.40 (d, 1H), 7.18 (m, 3H), 7.05 (m, 1H), 6.90 (m, 2H), 6.10 (s, 1H), 5.90 (m, 1H), 5.70 (m, 1H), 4.50 (m, 2H), 4.22 (m, 2H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H).

Example 439 Preparation of 6-fluoro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)allyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 353)

6-Fluoro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 0.98 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (4 mL). Copper (I) iodide (18 mg, 0.098 mmol), L-proline (22 mg, 0.19 mmol) and K₃PO₄ (416 mg, 1.96 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-4-fluorobenzene (250 mg, 1.17 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated at 85° C. overnight (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water, and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-5% MeOH-DCM. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.60 (m, 2H), 7.30-7.20 (m, 3H), 7.0 (m, 1H), 6.95 (m, 1H), 5.38 (s, 1H), 5.22 (s, 2H), 4.30 (m, 2H), 4.08 (s, 1H), 3.8-3.3 (m, 2H), 3.0 (m, 2H), 2.90 (s, 3H).

Example 440 Preparation of 6-chloro-5-(2-(4-fluorophenyl)allyl)-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 354)

6-Chloro-2-methyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (200 mg, 0.909 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (4 mL). Copper (I) iodide (14 mg, 0.089 mmol), L-proline (20 mg, 0.173 mmol) and K₃PO₄ (380 mg, 1.79 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min at RT. 1-(1-Bromoprop-1-en-2-yl)-4-fluorobenzene (250 mg, 1.17 mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction mixture was purged with nitrogen. The reaction mixture was heated at 85° C. overnight (prolonged heating in some cases was required). DMF was evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was diluted with water, and the solid was filtered. The solid material was purified by silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 0-5% MeOH-DCM. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 7.60 (m, 2H), 7.45 (d, 1H), 7.20-7.05 (m, 4H), 5.50 (s, 2H), 5.30 (s, 1H), 4.55 (m, 2H), 4.05 (s, 1H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.18 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H).

Example 441 Preparation of 4-(3-(2,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indol-5(2H)-yl)prop-1-en-2-yl)phenol (Compound No. 355)

This product was isolated as a regioisomer from Example 194 (Compound No. 235). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 7.38 (d, 2H), 7.25 (d, 2H), 7.05 (d, 1H), 6.78 (d, 2H), 5.22 (s, 1H), 5.10 (s, 2H), 4.70 (m, 1H), 4.40 (m, 1H), 4.30 (s, 1H), 3.80 (m, 1H), 3.56 (m, 1H), 3.18 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H).

Example 442 Preparation of 8-methoxy-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 356)

This product was isolated as a regioisomer from Example 199 (Compound No. 239) and Example 206 (Compound No. 246). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.50 (d, 2H), 7.58 (d, 2H), 7.22 (d, 1H), 6.92 (s, 1H), 6.80 (d, 1H), 5.60 (s, 1H), 5.18 (s, 2H), 4.62 (s, 1H), 4.0 (s, 2H), 3.80 (s, 3H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 2.95 (m, 2H), 2.78 (s, 3H).

Example 443 Preparation of 8-chloro-2-methyl-5-(3-methyl-2-(pyridin-4-yl)but-2-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 357)

1-(8-Chloro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-methylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-3-methyl-2-(pyridin-4-yl)butan-2-ol (0.668 g, 1.77 mmol) was dissolved in thionyl chloride (0.32 mL, 2.5 eq) and the solution was stirred at RT for 12 h. Volatiles were removed under reduced pressure, the residue was basified with saturated aqueous sodium bicarbonate, and the product was extracted with EtOAc (3×50 mL). Combined organic layer was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified silica gel chromatography (100-200 mesh) eluting with 5% MeOH:DCM to obtain 0.120 g of product. ¹H NMR (DMSO-d6, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.22 (d, 2H), 7.40 (s, 1H), 7.25 (d, 1H), 7.05 (d, 1H), 7.85 (d, 2H), 5.18 (s, 2H), 4.22 (m, 2H), 3.45 (m, 2H), 2.95 (m, 2H), 2.82 (s, 3H), 2.10 (s, 3H), 1.50 (s, 3H).

Example 444 Preparation of 2,8-dimethyl-5-(3-methyl-2-(pyridin-4-yl)but-2-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 358)

1-(1,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-2,8-dimethylpyrido[4,3-b]indol-5-yl)-3-methyl-2-(pyridin-4-yl)butan-2-ol (0.2 g, 0.55 mmol) was dissolved in dry DCM and a drop of DMF was added. The solution was cooled to 0° C. and thionyl chloride (0.194 g, 1.65 mmoL) dissolved in dry DCM (1 mL) was added. Stirring was continued for 1 h at 0° C. and for 2 h at RT. Volatiles were removed under reduced pressure, the residue was basified with saturated aqueous sodium bicarbonate, and the product was extracted with EtOAc (3×50 mL). The combined organic layers were dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was purified by reverse phase HPLC. ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 8.42 (d, 2H), 7.50 (d, 2H), 7.12 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 1H), 6.90 (d, 1H), 5.22 (d, 2H), 4.60 (d, 1H), 4.22 (d, 1H), 3.82 (m, 1H), 3.50 (m, 1H), 3.16 (m, 2H), 3.05 (s, 3H), 2.38 (s, 3H), 2.20 (s, 3H), 1.65 (s, 3H).

Example 445 Preparation of (Z)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)but-2-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 359)

This product was isolated as a regioisomer from Example 243 (Compound No. 281). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.20 (d, 2H), 7.30 (d, 1H), 7.18 (d, 2H), 7.10 (s, 1H), 6.98 (d, 1H), 6.10 (q, 1H), 5.20 (s, 2H), 4.02 (s, 2H), 3.30 (m, 2H), 3.05 (m, 2H), 2.80 (s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H), 2.05 (d, 3H).

Example 446 Preparation of (Z)-8-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)but-2-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 360)

This product was isolated as a regioisomer from Example 246 (Compound No. 284). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.20 (d, 2H), 7.35 (d, 1H), 7.30 (s, 1H), 7.18 (d, 2H), 7.05 (d, 1H), 6.10 (q, 1H), 5.20 (s, 2H), 3.62 (s, 2H), 2.90 (m, 4H), 2.51 (s, 3H), 2.05 (d, 3H).

Example 447 Preparation of (E)-2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)but-2-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 361)

This product was isolated as a regioisomer from Example 245 (Compound No. 283). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.40 (d, 2H), 7.21 (d, 1H), 7.18 (s, 1H), 7.10 (d, 2H), 6.95 (d, 1H), 5.60 (q, 1H), 4.9 (s, 2H), 4.02 (s, 2H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 2.90 (m, 2H), 2.76 (s, 3H), 2.40 (s, 3H), 1.50 (d, 3H).

Example 448 Preparation of (E)-8-chloro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)but-2-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 362)

This product was isolated as a regioisomer from Example 246 (Compound No. 284). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, freebase) δ (ppm): 8.40 (d, 2H), 7.35 (s, 1H), 7.28 (d, 1H), 7.10 (d, 2H), 7.0 (d, 1H), 5.60 (q, 1H), 4.92 (s, 2H), 3.62 (s, 2H), 2.82 (m, 2H), 2.76 (m, 2H), 2.50 (s, 3H), 1.50 (d, 3H).

Example 449 Preparation of 6-fluoro-2-methyl-5-(2-(pyridin-4-yl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 363)

This product was isolated as a regioisomer from Example 179 (Compound No. 223). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, oxalate salt) δ (ppm): 8.55 (d, 2H), 7.60 (d, 2H), 7.30 (d, 1H), 7.10 (m, 1H), 6.90 (m, 1H), 5.62 (s, 1H), 5.38 (s, 2H), 4.58 (m, 2H), 4.50 (s, 1H), 3.70 (m, 2H), 3.20 (m, 2H), 3.10 (s, 3H).

Example 450 Preparation of 2,8-dimethyl-5-(2-(pyrazin-2-yl)allyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Compound No. 364)

This product was isolated as a regioisomer from Example 248 (Compound No. 287). ¹H NMR (CD₃OD, TFA salt) δ (ppm): 9.0 (d, 1H), 8.70 (s, 1H), 8.60 (d, 1H), 7.70 (s, 1H), 7.38 (s, 1H), 7.15 (m, 2H), 4.78 (d, 1H), 4.40 (d, 1H), 3.90 (m, 1H), 3.60 (m, 1H), 3.25 (m, 2H), 3.20 (s, 3H), 2.50 (s, 3H), 2.10 (s, 3H).

Example 451 Characterization Data for Representative Compounds

Characterization data for representative compounds prepared according to the examples are further detailed in Table 7.

TABLE 7 Representative Characterization Data Ex. NMR MS HPLC HPLC Rt No. Salt MW Solvent NMR Data observed Method¹ (min.) 1. Oxalate 462.86 CD₃OD 7.4 (m, 3H), 7.18 (d, 373 1 3.66 1H), 6.98 (m, 3H), 4.45 (bs, 2H), 4.3 (d, 1H), 4.19 (d, 1H), 3.6- (bs, 2H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 3.1-2.9 (m, 2H), 1.60 (s, 3H) 2. TFA 468.85 CD₃OD 7.68 (t, 2H), 7.54 (s, 355 1 3.93 1H), 7.21 (s, 2H), 7.16 (t, 2H), 6.97 (s, 1H), 4.8 (bs, 1H), 4.39 (bs, 1H), 3.85 (bs, 1H), 3.60 (bs, 1H), 3.13 (bs, 5H), 1.92 (s, 3H) 3. TFA 448.43 DMSO 10.0 (bs, 1H), 7.7 (m, NONE 1 6.22 2H), 7.2 (m, 3H), 7.10 (d, 2H), 7.0 (d, 1H), 4.6 (d, 1H), 4.3 (d, 1H), 3.7 (bs, 1H), 3.49 (bs, 1H), 3.0 (bs, 2H), 3.0 (s, 3H), 2.4 (s, 3H), 1.8 (s, 3H). Method-1 Column: Zorbax SB C18 (50 × 4.6 mm) 1.8 micron Mobile Phase: Gradient of ACN and 0.05% TFA Flow rate: 1.0 mL/min. Wavelength 230 nm

Example B1 Determination of the Ability of Compounds of the Invention to Bind a Histamine Receptor Histamine H₁

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, human recombinant histamine H₁ receptor expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells (De Backer, M. D. et al., Biochem. Biophys. Res. Comm. 197(3):1601, 1993) in a modified Tris-HCl buffer (50 mM Tris-HCl, pH 7.4, 2 mM MgCl₂, 100 mM NaCl, 250 mM Sucrose) was used. Compounds of the invention were incubated with 1.2 nM [³H]Pyrilamine for 180 min. at 25° C. Non-specific binding was estimated in the presence of 1 μM pyrilamine. Receptor proteins were filtered and washed, the filters were then counted to determine [³H]Pyrilamine specifically bound. Compounds were screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Biochemical assay results are presented as the percent inhibition of specific binding in Table 8.

Histamine H₂

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, human recombinant histamine H₂ receptor expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) K1 cells (Ruat, M., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA. 87(5):1658, 1990) in a 50 mM Phosphate buffer, pH 7.4 was used. Compounds of the invention were incubated with 0.1 nM [¹²⁵I]Aminopotentidine for 120 min. at 25° C. Non-specific binding was estimated in the presence of 3 μM Tiotidine. Receptor proteins were filtered and washed, the filters were then counted to determine [¹²⁵I]Aminopotentidine specifically bound. Compounds were screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Biochemical assay results are presented as the percent inhibition of specific binding in Table 8.

Histamine H₃

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, human recombinant histamine H₃ receptor expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO-K1) cells (Yanai K et al. Jpn J Pharmacol. 65(2): 107, 1994; Zhu Y et al. Mol Pharmacol. 59(3): 434, 2001) in a modified Tris-HCl buffer (50 mM Tris-HCl, pH 7.4, 5 mM MgCl₂, 0.04% BSA) is used. Compounds of invention are incubated with 3 nM [³H]R(−)-α-Methylhistamine for 90 min. at 25° C. Non-specific binding is estimated in the presence of 1 μM R(−)-α-Methylhistamine. Receptor proteins are filtered and washed, the filters are then counted to determine [³H] R(−)-α-Methylhistamine specifically bound. Compounds are screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Compounds of the invention are tested in this biochemical assay and percent inhibition of specific binding is determined.

Example B2 Determination of the Ability of Compounds of the Invention to Bind a Imidazoline I₂ Receptor Central Imidazoline I₂

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, rat central imidazoline I₂ receptor obtained from Wistar Rat cerebral cortex (Brown, C. M. et al., Br. J. Pharmacol. 99:803, 1990) in a modified Tris-HCl buffer (50 mM Tris-HCl buffer, pH 7.4, 0.5 mM EDTA) was used. Compounds of the invention were incubated with 2 nM [³H]Idazoxan for 30 min. at 25° C. Non-specific binding was estimated in the presence of 1 μM Idazoxan. Receptor proteins were filtered and washed, the filters were then counted to determine [³H]Idazoxan specifically bound. Compounds were screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Compounds of the invention were tested in this biochemical assay and percent inhibition of specific binding was determined. Certain compounds showed inhibition of specific binding by at least about 80%.

TABLE 8 Binding data Imidazoline Example Compound I₂ Central Histamine Binding (1 μM) No. No. (1 μM) H₁ H₂ 2 3 58 30 6 43 43 76/79 81/85 58/84 49 44 46 54 26 44 45 — 65/73 94 45 47 — 33 48 51 48 — 93 47 47 51 79 100 59 53 52 — 46 51 48 53 78 47 58 54 54 — 68 5 56 55 — 91 88 55 56 — 90 26 57 57 — 41 82 58 59 — 63 58 60 60 — 52 40 61 61 — 52 41 62 62 — 38 43 63 63 — 46 53 80 78 — 52/69 89 82 82 — 35/64 99 83 83 85 60/79/84 99 84 85 —  9/13 — 89 86 — 72 54 85 87 — 65/81 100 90 88 — 16/19/37/28 30 86 89 — 43 91 91 90 — 48/59 60 88 91 — 11 52 92 92 — 44 99 93 93 — 39 100 94 95 — 85 41 99 98 — 53 99 100 100 — 65/67 100 105 102 — 60 98 102 103 — 81 101 107 106 — 84 99 104 107 — 88 — 113 110 — 77/83 102 110 111 — 73/74 91 125 125 — 96 48 126 126 — 103 85 127 127 — 100 22 83 128 — 98 100 85 132 — 96 96 89 133 — 101 60 86 136 — 99 85 93 140 — 98 99 429 166 — 14 56 259 171 — 13/22 85 260 172 — 95 65 261 173 — 91 78 262 174 — 34/43 80 263 175 — 71 91 428 176 — 21 74 264 177 — 83 101 265 178 — 30 89 266 180 — 84 24 267 181 — 0 25 268 182 — 26 53 269 183 — 91 47 270 184 — 23 57 271 185 — 8 29 272 186 — 1 22 273 187 — 36 57 274 188 — 8 13 275 189 — 77 85 276 190 — −11 9 277 191 — 23 — 278 192 — 61 — 279 193 — −7 — 280 194 — 9 — 281 195 — 20 — 282 196 — 19 — 283 197 — 61 — 284 198 — 64 — 285 199 — 61 — 286 200 — 45 — 152 202 — 100 97 155 203 — 64/72 99 156 204 — 55 101 157 205 — 31/39 95 158 206 — 76 102 159 207 — 15 46 160 208 — 64 102 161 209 — 9 20 163 210 — 53 96 165 211 — 53/54 100 166 212 — 70 84 167 213 — 69 99 168 214 — 23 100 169 215 — 89 98 170 216 — 47/49 61 171 217 — 12/38 50 172 218 — 78/79 98 173 219 — 60/66 82 174 220 — 91 99 175 221 — 90 98 176 222 — 25 91 179 223 —  6/11 44 180 224 — 24/26 58 181 225 — 81 98 182 226 — 71 100 185 227 — 52 101 186 228 — 66 102 187 229 — 54 96 189 230 — 35 96 190 231 — 58 97 191 232 — 71 95 192 233 — 85 99 193 234 — 69 94 194 235 — 73 96 195 236 — 20 99 196 237 — 88 95 197 238 — 58 93 199 239 — 14 28 200 240 — 95 99 201 241 — 89 98 202 242 — 88 97 203 243 — 95 90 204 244 — 87 88 205 245 — 60 71 206 246 — 7 29 207 247 — 75 99 209 248 — 90 — 210 249 — 48 — 211 250 — 12 — 212 251 — 15 — 213 252 — 22 — 214 253 — 20 — 215 254 — 7 — 216 255 — 11 — 217 256 — 92 — 218 257 — 18 — 219 258 — 59 — 220 259 — 10 — 221 260 — −19 — 222 261 — 11 — 223 262 — 66 — 224 263 — 8 — 225 264 — 24 — 226 265 — 22 — 227 266 — −1 — 228 267 — 6 — 229 268 — 53 — 231 269 — −2 — 232 270 — 19 — 233 271 — −16 — 234 272 — 48 — 235 273 — 41 — 236 274 — 72 — 237 275 — 39 — 238 276 — 63 — 239 277 — 95 — 240 278 — 24 — 241 279 — 21 — 242 280 — 12 — 243 281 — 42 — 244 282 — 31 — 245 283 — 23 — 246 284 — 40 — 247 285 — 21 — 430 286 — 19 — 248 287 — 33 — 249 288 — 25 — 250 289 — 34 — 255 291 — −4 — 256 292 — 11 — 257 293 — 9 — 258 294 — 83 — 293 320 — 65 — 294 332 — 23 — 295 333 — 29 — 296 334 — 18 — 297 338 — 83 — 287 341 — 11 — 288 342 — 48 — 289 343 — 22 — 290 344 — 7 — 291 345 — 56 — 292 346 — 17 — 433 347 — 42/56 87 434 348 — 32/38 73 435 349 — 53/65 84 436 350 — 27/37 93 437 351 — 78/80 100 438 352 — 4 15 439 353 — 100 93 440 354 — 86 97 441 355 — 116 93 442 356 — 70 17 443 357 — 61 — 444 358 — 47 — 445 359 — 38 — 446 360 — 47 — 447 361 — 96 — 448 362 — 98 — 449 363 — 62 — 450 364 — 95 — 301 365 — 92 — 298 367 — 64 — 299 368 — 82 — 300 369 — 29 — 302 370 — 72 — 303 375 — 65 — 304 376 — 23 — 305 377 — 29 — 306 378 — 18 — 307 379 — 83 — 308 380 — 64 — 309 381 — 82 — 310 382 — 29 — 311 383 — 72 — 312 384 — 66 — 313 385 — 68 — 314 386 — 8 — 315 387 — 84 — 316 388 — 100 — 317 389 — 39 — 318 390 — 49 — 319 391 — 84 — 320 392 — 84 — 321 393 — 69 — 322 394 — 75 — 323 395 — 102 — 324 396 — 15 — 325 397 — 89 — 326 398 — 95 — 327 399 — 13 — 328 400 — 22 — 329 401 — 8 — 330 402 — 15 — 331 403 — 37 — 332 404 — 37 — 333 405 — 67 — 334 406 — 74 — 335 407 — 10 — 336 408 — 98 — 337 409 — 18 — 338 410 — 36 — 339 411 — 0 — 340 412 — 27 — 341 413 — 16 — 342 414 — 61 — 343 415 — 97 — 344 416 — 91 — 345 417 — 48 — 346 418 — 33 — 347 419 — 52 — 348 420 — 13 — 349 421 — 93 — 350 422 — 8 — 351 423 — 31 — 352 424 — 43 — 353 425 — 4 — 354 426 — 50 — 355 427 — 1 — 356 428 — 97 — 357 429 — 101 — 358 430 — 72 — 359 431 — 33 — 360 432 — 46 — 361 433 — 13 — 363 435 — 11 — 364 436 — 12 — 365 437 — 44 — 366 438 — 92 — 367 439 — 9 — 368 440 — 4 — 369 441 — 91 — 370 442 — 29 — 371 443 — −5 — 372 444 — −13 — 373 445 — 1 — 374 446 — −4 — 375 447 — −1 — 376 448 — −10 — 377 449 — −7 — 378 450 — 43 — 379 451 — 99 — 380 452 — 18 — 381 453 — 26 — 382 454 — 21 — 383 455 — 13 — 384 456 — 17 — 385 457 — 37 — 386 458 — 56 — 387 459 — 53 — 388 460 — 17 — 389 461 — 31 — 390 462 — 32 — 392 464 — 66 — 393 465 — −14 — 394 466 — 10 — 395 467 — 54 — 396 468 — 82 — 397 469 — 14 — 398 470 — 17 — 400 471 — 2 — 401 472 — 21 — 402 473 — 35 — 403 474 — 98 — 404 475 — 34 91 405 476 — 27 88 406 477 — 17 97 407 478 — 28 94 408 479 — 11 51 409 480 — 40 93 410 481 — 12 97 411 482 — 13 −3 412 483 — −1 10 413 484 — 6 77 414 485 — −6 97 415 486 — 22 — 416 487 — 75 — 417 488 — 9 — 418 489 — 13 — 419 490 — 18 — 420 491 — 52 — 421 492 — 68 — 422 493 — 69 — 423 494 — 2 — 424 495 — 52 — 425 496 — 15 — 426 497 — 17 — 427 498 — 65 — 430 499 — 26 — 432 500 54 70 30

Example B3 Determination of the Ability of Compounds of the Invention to Bind an Adrenergic Receptor Adrenergic α_(1A)

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, rat adrenergic α_(1A) receptor obtained from Wistar Rat submaxillary glands (Michel, A. D. et al., Br. J. Pharmacol. 98:883, 1989) in a modified Tris-HCl buffer (50 mM Tris-HCl buffer, pH 7.4, 0.5 mM EDTA) was used. Compounds of the invention were incubated with 0.25 nM [³H]Prozosin for 60 min. at 25° C. Non-specific binding was estimated in the presence of 10 μM phentolamine. Receptor proteins were filtered and washed, the filters were then counted to determine [³H]Prozosin specifically bound. Compounds of the invention were screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Compounds of the invention were tested in this biochemical assay and percent inhibition of specific binding was determined. Certain compounds showed inhibition of specific binding by at least about 80%.

Adrenergic α_(1B)

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, rat adrenergic α_(1B) receptor obtained from Wistar Rat liver (Garcia-S'ainz, J. A. et al., Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 186:760, 1992; Michel A. D. et al., Br. J. Pharmacol. 98:883, 1989) in a modified Tris-HCl buffer (50 mM Tris-HCl buffer, pH 7.4, 0.5 mM EDTA) was used. Compounds of the invention were incubated with 0.25 nM [³H]Prozosin for 60 min. at 25° C. Non-specific binding was estimated in the presence of 10 μM phentolamine. Receptor proteins were filtered and washed, the filters were then counted to determine [³H]Prozosin specifically bound. Compounds were screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Compounds of the invention were tested in this biochemical assay and percent inhibition of specific binding was determined. Certain compounds showed inhibition of specific binding by at least about 80%.

Adrenergic α_(1D)

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, human recombinant adrenergic α_(1D) receptor expressed in human embryonic kidney (HEK-293) cells (Kenny, B. A. et al. Br. J. Pharmacol. 115(6):981, 1995) in a 50 mM Tris-HCl buffer, pH 7.4, was used. Compounds of invention were incubated with 0.6 nM [³H]Prozosin for 60 min. at 25° C. Non-specific binding was estimated in the presence of 10 μM phentolamine. Receptor proteins were filtered and washed, the filters were then counted to determine [³H]Prozosin specifically bound. Compounds were screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Biochemical assay results are presented as the percent inhibition of specific binding in Table 9.

Adrenergic α_(2A)

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, human recombinant adrenergic α_(2A) receptor expressed in insect Sf9 cells (Uhlen S et al. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 271:1558, 1994) in a modified Tris-HCl buffer (50 mM Tris-HCl, pH 7.4, 12.5 mM MgCl₂, 2 mM EDTA) was used. Compounds of invention were incubated with 1 nM [³]MK-912 for 60 min. at 25° C. MK912 is (2S-trans)-1,3,4,5′,6,6′,7,12b-octahydro-1′,3′-dimethyl-spiro[2H-benzofuro[2,3-a]quinolizine-2,4′(1′H)-pyrimidin]-2′(3′H)-one hydrochloride Non-specific binding was estimated in the presence of 10 μM WB-4101 (2-(2,6-Dimethoxyphenoxyethyl)aminomethyl-1,4-benzodioxane hydrochloride). Receptor proteins were filtered and washed, the filters were then counted to determine [³H]MK-912 specifically bound. Compounds were screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Biochemical assay results are presented as the percent inhibition of specific binding in Table 9.

Adrenergic α_(2B)

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, human recombinant adrenergic α_(2B) receptor expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO-K1) cells (Uhlen S et al. Eur J Pharmacol. 343(1):93, 1998) in a modified Tris-HCl buffer (50 mM Tris-HCl, pH 7.4, 12.5 mM MgCl₂, 1 mM EDTA, 0.2% BSA) was used. Compounds of the invention were incubated with 2.5 nM [³H]Rauwolscine for 60 min. at 25° C. Non-specific binding was estimated in the presence of 10 μM Prozosin. Receptor proteins were filtered and washed, the filters were then counted to determine [³H]Rauwolscine specifically bound. Compounds were screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Biochemical assay results are presented as the percent inhibition of specific binding in Table 9.

Adrenergic α_(2C)

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, human recombinant adrenergic α_(2C) receptor expressed in insect Sf9 cells (Uhlen S et al. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 271:1558, 1994) in a modified Tris-HCl buffer (50 mM Tris-HCl, pH 7.4, 12.5 mM MgCl₂, 2 mM EDTA) was used. Compounds of the invention were incubated with 1 nM [³H]MK-912 for 60 min. at 25° C. Non-specific binding was estimated in the presence of 10 μM WB-4101. Receptor proteins were filtered and washed, the filters were then counted to determine [³H]MK-912 specifically bound. Compounds were screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Compounds of the invention were tested in this biochemical assay and percent inhibition of specific binding was determined. Certain compounds showed inhibition of specific binding by at least about 80%.

Example B4 Determination of the Ability of Compounds of the Invention to Bind a Dopamine Receptor Dopamine D_(2L)

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, human recombinant dopamine D_(2L) receptor expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells (Grandy, D. K. et al. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA. 86:9762, 1989; Hayes, G. et al., Mol. Endocrinol. 6:920, 1992) in a modified Tris-HCl buffer (50 mM Tris-HCl, pH 7.4, 1.4 mM Ascorbic Acid, 0.001% BSA, 150 mM NaCl) was used. Compounds of the invention were incubated with 0.16 nM [³H]Spiperone for 120 min. at 25° C. Non-specific binding was estimated in the presence of 10 μM Haloperidol. Receptor proteins were filtered and washed, the filters were then counted to determine [³H]Spiperone specifically bound. Compounds were screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Biochemical assay results are presented as the percent inhibition of specific binding in Table 9.

TABLE 9 Inhibition of ligand binding to aminergic G protein-coupled receptors by compounds of the invention: Dopamine Example Adrenergic (1 μM) (1 μM) No. Compound No. α_(1A) α_(1B) α_(1D) α_(2A) α_(2B) α_(2C) D_(2L) 2 3 — — 42 58 91 — 14 43 43 90/96 97/96 87/89 98/100 108/102 100/94 65 49 44 39 38 35 65 94 35 — 44 45 — — 61 89 109 — 34/35 45 47 — — 82 81 106 — 7 51 48 — — 45 83 100 — 8 47 51 86 95 89 91 118 92 — 53 52 — — 39 84 104 12 48 53 74 66 55 93 114 82 — 54 54 — — 15 39 103 — −4 56 55 — — 64 85 108 — 34 55 56 — — 43 65 112 — 4 57 57 — — 84 70 108 — 22 58 59 — — 81 83 95 — 17 60 60 — — 33 81 96 — 6 61 61 — — 87 76 107 — 19 62 62 — — 82 57 103 — 7 63 63 — — 84 74 101 — 17 80 78 — — 49 91 87 — 27/33 82 82 — — 62 96 99 — 39/45 83 83 90 96 96 98 121 99 98 84 85 — — — — — — 43/57 89 86 — — — — — — 40 85 87 — — 99 95 121 — 97 90 88 — — 78 65 107 — 41/66/93 86 89 — — 87 97 108 — 68 91 90 — — 93 95 104 — 93/98 88 91 — — — — — — 27 92 92 — — 99 89 103 — 83/97 93 93 — — 96 94 108 — 85/97 94 95 — — 89 95 103 — 17 99 98 — — — — — — 78 100 100 — — 87 101  97 — 67/68 105 102 — — — — — — 99 102 103 — — — — — — 49 107 106 — — 92 93 114 — 90 104 107 — — — — — — 72 113 110 — — 86 99 92 — 96/98 110 111 — — 47 101  90 — 27/29 125 125 — — 51 76 110 — 20 126 126 — — 50 87 116 — 84 127 127 — — 46 60 68 — 10 83 128 — — 91 99 120 — 97 85 132 — — 93 97 118 — 91 89 133 — — 55 89 103 — 29 86 136 — — 70 95 90 — 54 93 140 — — 84 86 106 — 57 429 166 — — 28 44 63 — −2 259 171 — — 49 83 86 — 12/13 260 172 — — 88 98 104 — 36 261 173 — — 58 94 98 — 32 262 174 — — 57 93 88 — 34/34 263 175 — — 75 94 96 — 24 428 176 — — 42 94 95 — 6 264 177 — — 70 96 94 — 33 265 178 — — 46 88 79 — 30 266 180 — — 60 84 105 — 10 267 181 — — — — — — 8 268 182 — — — — — — 8 269 183 — — — — — — 15 270 184 — — — — — — 1 271 185 — — — — — — −1 272 186 — — — — — — 3 273 187 — — — — — — 35 274 188 — — — — — — −5 275 189 — — — — — — 2 276 190 — — — — — — −15 277 191 — — — — — — 15 278 192 — — — — — — 34 279 193 — — — — — — 14 280 194 — — — — — — 12 281 195 — — — — — — 17 282 196 — — — — — — 9 283 197 — — — — — — 14 284 198 — — — — — — 5 285 199 — — — — — — 16 286 200 — — — — — — 6 152 202 — — 98 98 98 — 83 155 203 — — 89 100  108 — 72/78 156 204 — — 67 99 86 — 87 157 205 — — 90 99 101 — 98/99 158 206 — — 102  96 89 — 76 159 207 — — 100  86 80 — 12 160 208 — — 89 99 103 — 78 161 209 — — 21 30 59 — 7 163 210 — — 17 79 102 — 52 165 211 — — 96 97 114 — 39/49 166 212 — — 78 88 105 — 32 167 213 — — 76 88 103 — 76 168 214 — — — — — — 83 169 215 — — — — — — 36 170 216 — — — — — — 97/98 171 217 — — — — — — 86/88 172 218 — — — — — — 40/43 173 219 — — — — — — 96/97 174 220 — — — — — — 32 175 221 — — — — — — 34 176 222 — — — — — — 82 179 223 — — — — — — 96/97 180 224 — — — — — — 65/80 181 225 — — — — — — 43 182 226 — — — — — — 46 185 227 — — — — — — 97 186 228 — — — — — — 98 187 229 — — — — — — 100 189 230 — — — — — — 44 190 231 — — — — — — 40 191 232 — — — — — — 91 192 233 — — — — — — 48 193 234 — — — — — — 73 194 235 — — — — — — 80 195 236 — — — — — — 76 196 237 — — — — — — 45 197 238 — — — — — — 81 199 239 — — — — — — 39 200 240 — — — — — — 34 201 241 — — — — — — 47 202 242 — — — — — — 55 203 243 — — — — — — 96 204 244 — — — — — — 86 205 245 — — — — — — 92 206 246 — — — — — — 57 207 247 — — — — — — 28 209 248 — — — — — — 95 210 249 — — — — — — 93 211 250 — — — — — — 18 212 251 — — — — — — 25 213 252 — — — — — — 13 214 253 — — — — — — 22 215 254 — — — — — — 11 216 255 — — — — — — 29 217 256 — — — — — — 34 218 257 — — — — — — 72 219 258 — — — — — — 81 220 259 — — — — — — −12 221 260 — — — — — — 9 222 261 — — — — — — 28 223 262 — — — — — — 97 224 263 — — — — — — 89 225 264 — — — — — — 49 226 265 — — — — — — 73 227 266 — — — — — — 94 228 267 — — — — — — 85 229 268 — — — — — — 98 231 269 — — — — — — 91 232 270 — — — — — — 88 233 271 — — — — — — 63 234 272 — — — — — — 85 235 273 — — — — — — 12 236 274 — — — — — — 56 237 275 — — — — — — 92 238 276 — — — — — — 82 239 277 — — — — — — 98 240 278 — — — — — — 51 241 279 — — — — — — 69 242 280 — — — — — — 52 243 281 — — — — — — 51 244 282 — — — — — — 57 245 283 — — — — — — 66 246 284 — — — — — — 84 247 285 — — — — — — 53 248 287 — — — — — — 72 430 286 — — — — — — 23 249 288 — — — — — — 92 250 289 — — — — — — 90 255 291 — — — — — — 0 256 292 — — — — — — 71 257 293 — — — — — — 31 258 294 — — — — — — 83 293 320 — — — — — — 61 294 332 — — — — — — 79 295 333 — — — — — — 51 296 334 — — — — — — 90 297 338 — — — — — — 97 287 341 — — — — — — 2 288 342 — — — — — — 11 289 343 — — — — — — 9 290 344 — — — — — — 10 291 345 — — — — — — 15 292 346 — — — — — — 26 433 347 — — 90 96 111 — 27/30 434 348 — — 35 92 105 — 18/29 435 349 — — 60 97 102 — 34/46 436 350 — — 85 95 107 — 12/21 437 351 — — 45 84 99 — 70/80 438 352 — — 11 34 47 — 0 439 353 — — — — — — 92 440 354 — — — — — — 98 441 355 — — — — — — 81 442 356 — — — — — — 37 443 357 — — — — — — 14 444 358 — — — — — — 14 445 359 — — — — — — 27 446 360 — — — — — — 36 447 361 — — — — — — 51 448 362 — — — — — — 79 449 363 — — — — — — 53 450 364 — — — — — — 27 301 365 — — — — — — 49 298 367 — — — — — — 48 299 368 — — — — — — 74 300 369 — — — — — — 64 302 370 — — — — — — 63 312 384 — — — — — — 91 313 385 — — — — — — 51 314 386 — — — — — — 25 315 387 — — — — — — 99 316 388 — — — — — — 99 317 389 — — — — — — 49 318 390 — — — — — — 97 319 391 — — — — — — 72 320 392 — — — — — — 99 321 393 — — — — — — 99 322 394 — — — — — — 99 323 395 — — — — — — 99 324 396 — — — — — — 7 325 397 — — — — — — 80 326 398 — — — — — — 97 327 399 — — — — — — 73 328 400 — — — — — — 94 329 401 — — — — — — 57 330 402 — — — — — — 87 331 403 — — — — — — 66 332 404 — — — — — — 92/97 333 405 — — — — — — 88 334 406 — — — — — — 96 335 407 — — — — — — 74 336 408 — — — — — — 44 337 409 — — — — — — 54 338 410 — — — — — — 47 339 411 — — — — — — 55 340 412 — — — — — — 94 341 413 — — — — — — 60 342 414 — — — — — — 100 343 415 — — — — — — 95 344 416 — — — — — — 20 345 417 — — — — — — 87 346 418 — — — — — — 14 347 419 — — — — — — 20 348 420 — — — — — — 29 349 421 — — — — — — 79 350 422 — — — — — — 68 351 423 — — — — — — −10 352 424 — — — — — — 20 353 425 — — — — — — 6 354 426 — — — — — — 32 355 427 — — — — — — 17 356 428 — — — — — — 57 357 429 — — — — — — 30 358 430 — — — — — — 25 359 431 — — — — — — 80 360 432 — — — — — — 79 361 433 — — — — — — 61 363 435 — — — — — — 71 364 436 — — — — — — 69 365 437 — — — — — — 15 366 438 — — — — — — 17 367 439 — — — — — — 16 368 440 — — — — — — 16 369 441 — — — — — — 64 370 442 — — — — — — 77 371 443 — — — — — — 92 372 444 — — — — — — 36 373 445 — — — — — — 20 374 446 — — — — — — 42 375 447 — — — — — — 59 376 448 — — — — — — 79 377 449 — — — — — — 59 378 450 — — — — — — 35 379 451 — — — — — — 70 380 452 — — — — — — 71 381 453 — — — — — — 51 382 454 — — — — — — 80 383 455 — — — — — — 56 384 456 — — — — — — 80 385 457 — — — — — — 53 386 458 — — — — — — 15 387 459 — — — — — — 71 388 460 — — — — — — 67 389 461 — — — — — — 78 390 462 — — — — — — 76 392 464 — — — — — — 93 393 465 — — — — — — 21 394 466 — — — — — — 54 395 467 — — — — — — 7 396 468 — — — — — — 12 397 469 — — — — — — 12 398 470 — — — — — — 1 400 471 — — — — — — 2 401 472 — — — — — — 53 402 473 — — — — — — 59 403 474 — — — — — — 53 404 475 — — 91 93 106 — 95 405 476 — — 95 96 87 — 19 406 477 — — 79 97 107 — 25 407 478 — — 92 96 106 — 89 408 479 — — 55 83 37 — 72 409 480 — — 68 94 100 — 18 410 481 — — 77 99 98 — 24 411 482 — — 21  8 6 — −2 412 483 — — 59 77 14 — 37 413 484 — — — — — — −4 414 485 — — — — — — 14 415 486 — — — — — — 14 416 487 — — — — — — 17 417 488 — — — — — — 19 418 489 — — — — — — 9 419 490 — — — — — — 74 420 491 — — — — — — 82 421 492 — — — — — — 60 422 493 — — — — — — 56 423 494 — — — — — — 13 424 495 — — — — — — 58 425 496 — — — — — — 25 426 497 — — — — — — 14 427 498 — — — — — — 9 430 499 — — — — — — 18 432 500 27 27 11 72 23 43 —

Example B5 Determination of the Ability of Compounds of the Invention to Bind a Serotonin Receptor Serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT_(1A)

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, human recombinant serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT_(1A) receptor expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO-K1) cells (Martin G R and Humphrey P P A. Neuropharmacol. 33:261, 1994; May J A, et al. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 306(1): 301, 2003) in a modified Tris-HCl buffer (50 mM Tris-HCl, pH 7.4, 0.1% Ascorbic Acid, 0.5 mM EDTA, 10 mM MgSO₄) is used. Compounds of invention are incubated with 1.5 nM [³H]8-OH-DPAT for 60 min. at 25° C. Non-specific binding is estimated in the presence of 10 μM Metergoline. Receptor proteins are filtered and washed, the filters are then counted to determine [³H] 8-OH-DPAT specifically bound. Compounds are screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Compounds of the invention are tested in this biochemical assay and percent inhibition of specific binding is determined.

Serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT_(1B)

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT_(1B) receptor from Wistar Rat cerebral cortex (Hoyer et al. Eur J Pharmaco. 118: 1, 1985; Pazos et al. Eur J Pharmacol. 106: 531, 1985) in a modified Tris-HCl buffer (50 mM Tris-HCl, pH 7.4, 154 mM NaCl, 10 μM Pargyline, 30 μM Isoprenaline) is used. Compounds of invention are incubated with 10 pM [¹²⁵I]Cyanopindolol for 90 min. at 37° C. Non-specific binding is estimated in the presence of 10 μM Serotonin (5-HT). Receptor proteins are filtered and washed, the filters are counted to determine [¹²⁵I]Cyanopindolol specifically bound. Compounds are screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Compounds of the invention are tested in this biochemical assay and percent inhibition of specific binding is determined.

Serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT_(2A)

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, human recombinant serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT_(2A) receptor expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO-K1) cells (Bonhaus, D. W. et al. Br. J. Pharmacol. 115:622, 1995; Saucier, C. and Albert, P. R., J. Neurochem. 68:1998, 1997) in a 50 mM Tris-HCl buffer, pH 7.4, was used. Compounds of the invention were incubated with 0.5 nM [³H]Ketanserin for 60 min. at 25° C. Non-specific binding was estimated in the presence of 1 μM Mianserin. Receptor proteins were filtered and washed, the filters were then counted to determine [³H]Ketanserin specifically bound. Compounds were screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Biochemical assay results are presented as the percent inhibition of specific binding in Table 10.

Serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT_(2B)

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, human recombinant serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT_(2B) receptor expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO-K1) cells (Bonhaus, D. W. et al., Br. J. Pharmacol. 115:622, 1995) in a modified Tris-HCl buffer (50 mM Tris-HCl, pH 7.4, 4 mM CaCl₂, 0.1% Ascorbic Acid) was used. Compounds of invention were incubated with 1.2 nM [³H]Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) for 60 min. at 37° C. Non-specific binding was estimated in the presence of 10 μM Serotonin (5-HT). Receptor proteins were filtered and washed, the filters were then counted to determine [³H]LSD specifically bound. Compounds were screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Compounds of the invention were tested in this biochemical assay and percent inhibition of specific binding was determined. Biochemical assay results are presented as the percent inhibition of specific binding in Table 10.

Serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT_(2C)

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, human recombinant serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT_(2C) receptor expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO-K1) cells (Wolf, W. A. and Schutz, J. S., J. Neurochem. 69:1449, 1997) in a modified Tris-HCl buffer (50 mM Tris-HCl, pH 7.4, 0.1% Ascorbic Acid, 10 μM Pargyline) was used. Compounds of the invention were incubated with 1 nM [³H]Mesulergine for 60 min. at 25° C. Non-specific binding was estimated in the presence of 1 μM Mianserin. Receptor proteins were filtered and washed, the filters were then counted to determine [³H]Mesulergine specifically bound. Compounds were screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Biochemical assay results are presented as the percent inhibition of specific binding in Table 10.

Serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT₃

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, human recombinant serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT₃ receptor expressed in human embryonic kidney (HEK-293) cells (Miller K et al. Synapase. 11:58, 1992; Boess F G et al. Neuropharmacology. 36:637, 1997) in a modified Tris-HCl buffer (50 mM Tris-HCl, pH 7.4, 1 mM EDTA, 5 mM MgCl₂) is used. Compounds of invention are incubated with 0.69 nM [³H]GR-65630 for 60 min. at 25° C. Non-specific binding is estimated in the presence of 10 μM MDL-72222. Receptor proteins are filtered and washed, the filters are then counted to determine [³H]GR-65630 specifically bound. Compounds are screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Compounds of the invention are tested in this biochemical assay and percent inhibition of specific binding is determined.

Serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT₄

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT₄ receptor from Duncan Hartley derived Guinea pig striatum (Grossman C J et al. Br J Pharmacol. 109:618, 1993) in a 50 mM Tris-HCl, pH 7.4, is used. Compounds of invention are incubated with 0.7 nM [³H]GR-113808 for 30 min. at 25° C. Non-specific binding is estimated in the presence of 30 μM Serotonin (5-HT). Receptor proteins are filtered and washed, the filters are counted to determine [³H]GR-113808 specifically bound. Compounds are screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Compounds of the invention are tested in this biochemical assay and percent inhibition of specific binding is determined.

Serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT_(5A)

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, human recombinant serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT_(5A) receptor expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO-K1) cells (Rees, S. et al., FEBS Lett. 355:242, 1994) in a modified Tris-HCl buffer (50 mM Tris-HCl, pH 7.4, 10 mM MgCl₂, 0.5 mM EDTA) is used. Compounds of the invention are incubated with 1.7 nM [³H]Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) for 60 min. at 37° C. Non-specific binding is estimated in the presence of 100 μM Serotonin (5-HT). Receptor proteins are filtered and washed, the filters are counted to determine [³H]LSD specifically bound. Compounds are screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Compounds of the invention are tested in this biochemical assay and percent inhibition of specific binding is determined.

Serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT₆

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, human recombinant serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT6 receptor expressed in human HeLa cells (Monsma, F. J. Jr. et al., Mol. Pharmacol. 43:320, 1993) in a modified Tris-HCl buffer (50 mM Tris-HCl, pH 7.4, 150 mM NaCl, 2 mM Ascorbic Acid, 0.001% BSA) was used. Compounds of the invention were incubated with 1.5 nM [3H]Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) for 120 min. at 37° C. Non-specific binding was estimated in the presence of 5 μM Serotonin (5-HT). Receptor proteins were filtered and washed, the filters were then counted to determine [3H]LSD specifically bound. Compounds were screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Biochemical assay results are presented as the percent inhibition of specific binding in Table 10.

Serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT₇

To evaluate in radioligand binding assays the activity of compounds of the invention, human recombinant serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT₇ receptor expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells (Roth, B. L. et al., J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther. 268:1403, 1994; Shen, Y. et al., J. Biol. Chem. 268:18200, 1993) in a modified Tris-HCl buffer (50 mM Tris-HCl, pH 7.4, 10 mM MgCl₂, 0.5 mM EDTA) was used. Compounds of invention were incubated with 5.5 nM [³H] Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) for 2 h at 25° C. Non-specific binding was estimated in the presence of 10 μM Serotonin (5-HT). Receptor proteins were filtered and washed, the filters were then counted to determine [³H]LSD specifically bound. Compounds were screened at 1 μM or lower, using 1% DMSO as vehicle. Biochemical assay results are presented as the percent inhibition of specific binding in Table 10.

TABLE 10 Inhibition of ligand binding to aminergic G protein-coupled receptors by compounds of the invention: Ex- am- ple Comp No. No. 5-HT_(2A) 5-HT_(2B) 5-HT_(2C) 5-HT_(5A) 5-HT₆ 5-HT₇ Serotonin (1 μM) 2 3 — — 96 — 58 — 43 43 100 70/77  96/100 61/73 95/99 98 49 44 80 11 36 0 9 42 44 45 99 — 95 — 94 92 45 47 84 — 81 — 39 — 51 48 73 — 67 — 59 — 47 51 102 32 84 27 83 91 53 52 83 — 87 — 37 — 48 53 100 23 82 26 49 87 54 54 42 — 22 — 31 — 56 55 100 — 93 — 90 — 55 56 68 — 38 — 62 — 57 57 95 — 86 — 68 — 58 59 96 — 99 — 54 — 60 60 78 — 86 — 50 — 61 61 77 — 90 — 65 — 62 62 88 — 89 — 43 — 63 63 95 — 95 — 73 — 80 78 97 — 103 — 101 97 82 82 100 — 105 — 103 93 83 83 99 88 98 97 102 93 84 85 — — — — 68 — 89 86 95 — 94 — 77 93 85 87 99 — 100 — 101 100 90 88  98/101 —  99/100 — 102/103 93 86 89 101 — 98 — 67 — 91 90 100 — 97 — 103 — 88 91 98 — 100 — 76 95 92 92 100 — 91 — 97 — 93 93 100 — 99 — 93 — 94 95 91 — 91 — 71 — 99 98 95 — 100 — 100 94 100 100 101 — 97 — 95 99 105 102 100 — 95 — 105 93 102 103 101 — 98 — 89 90 107 106 98 — 98 — 104 98 113 110 98 — 101 — 104 92 110 111 99 — 100 — 94 102 125 125 97 — 77 — 62 — 126 126 102 — 84 — 95 — 127 127 84 — 72 — 41 — 83 128 100 — 100 — 101 98 85 132 100 — 96 — 100 103 89 133 96 — 96 — 80 — 86 136 100 — 93 — 73 — 93 140 98 — 98 — 75 — 429 166 46 — 46 — 6 — 259 171 97 — 98 — 93 42 260 172 91 — 97 — 93 100 261 173 99 — 98 — 85 103 262 174  97/100 — 95/98 — 82/87 95/98 263 175 102 — 95 — 100 79 428 176 97 — 99 — 82 65 264 177 97 — 95 — 100 42 265 178 98 — 95 — 95 48 266 180 86 — 74 — 72 77 267 181 77 — 80 — 32 30 268 182 91 — 93 — 47 54 269 183 82 — 78 — 72 74 270 184 82 — 65 — 31 48 271 185 82 — 83 — 26 41 272 186 74 — 72 — 12 37 273 187 102 — 99 — 98 94 274 188 50 — 66 — 9 45 275 189 96 — 91 — 87 82 276 190 71 — 52 — 31 47 152 202 101 — 101 — 105 91 155 203 100 — 98 — 103 95 156 204 101 — 102 — 102 93 157 205 97 — 100 — 103 102 158 206 98 — 98 — 102 93 159 207 97 — 97 — 58 92 160 208 102 — 102 — 103 100 161 209 93 — 95 — 41 36 163 210 98 — 99 — 76 65 165 211 99 — 107 — 98 101 166 212 91 — 104 — 97 98 167 213 98 — 102 — 100 100 168 214 93 — 95 — 94 97 169 215 97 — 96 — 97 90 170 216 99 — 94 — 104 79 171 217 98 — 87/92 — 102 73/91 172 218 99 — 96 — 99 93 173 219 101 — 98 — 102 94 174 220 99 — 98 — 99 104 175 221 97 — 99 — 95 93 176 222 100 — 99 — 102 69 179 223 95 — 93 — 103 91 180 224 99 — 97 — 102 91 181 225 99 — 100 — 103 94 182 226 98 — 100 — 101 100 185 227 103 — 103 — 107 90 186 228 101 — 97 — 106 97 187 229 100 — 100 — 107 89 189 230 98 — 100 — 97 93 190 231 101 — 98 — 97 94 191 232 99 — 98 — 103 84 192 233 97 — 101 — 102 95 193 234 100 — 102 — 101 99 194 235 98 — 101 — 99 96 195 236 99 — 102 — 98 93 196 237 101 — 98 — 101 100 197 238 101 — 99 — 99 98 199 239 93 — 93 — 104 98 200 240 99 — 99 — 104 99 201 241 93 — 100 — 101 96 202 242 98 — 99 — 107 100 203 243 100 — 99 — 107 97 204 244 103 — 99 — 106 99 205 245 102 — 96 — 103 74 206 246 97 — 94 — 104 88 207 247 101 — 100 — 103 101 433 347 100 — 104 — 101 101 434 348  99/100 — 91/95 — 94/98 93/93 435 349  97/100 — 96/98 — 102/103  93/100 436 350 100 — 87 — 103 71 437 351 100 — 101 — 103 90 438 352 84 — 93 — 32 52 439 353 98 — 97 — 100 87 440 354 100 — 101 — 103 75 441 355 92 — 99 — 101 92 442 356 81 — 83 — 90 60 332 404 — — 90 — — 95 397 469 87 — — — — — 398 470 89 — — — — — 404 475 99 — 96 — 99 — 405 476 100 — 95 — 64/86 90/92 406 477 95 — 99 — 89 65 407 478 99 — 110 — 97 96 408 479 78 — 69 — 91 17 409 480 98 — 102 — 67 84 410 481 101 — 104 — 87 84 411 482 −8 — −12 — 4 22 412 483 34 — 35 — 53 16 413 484 98 — 95 — 34 83 414 485 96 — 102 — 89 77 432 500 40 34 77 23 18 48 Serotonin (0.1 μM) 43 43 — −2 81 19 62 — 44 45 86 — 88 — 48 — 47 51 — 12 43 — 29 — 80 78 76 — 69 — 78 — 82 82 92 — 94 — 90 86/95 83 83 98 — 100 — 96 82/96 84 85 88/98 — 92 — 22/19 — 85 87 100 — 101 — 97 — 90 88 87/95 — 74/96 —  82/102 75/97 91 90 97 — 85 — 102 82 100 100 97 — 104 — 62 — 104 107 96 — 95 — 97 95 113 110 102 — 99 — 102 — 110 111 86 — 95 — 71 — 83 128 99 — — — 94 — 259 171 60 — 51 — 35 — 262 174 96 — 96 — 40 68 277 191 98 — 94 — 45 69 278 192 91 — 81 — 38 78 279 193 69 — 44 — 3 40 280 194 71 — 47 — 7 16 281 195 62 — 43 — 32 18 282 196 36 — 8 — 10 12 283 197 17 — 16 — 4 10 284 198 23 — −1 — 11 4 285 199 40 — 33 — 25 30 286 200 30 — 17 — 20 31 155 203 98 — 101 — 97 — 157 205 104 — 96 — 99 — 165 211 97 — 98 — 60 — 170 216 98 — 83 — 100 66 171 217 96 — 62 — 97 58 172 218 94 — 92 — 85 — 173 219 100 — 94 — 96 — 179 223 97 — 81 — 104 67 180 224 92 — 95 — 96 88 209 248 108 — 92 — 101 57 210 249 90 — 60 — 98 70 211 250 36 — 31 — 13 33 212 251 85 — 77 — 8 74 213 252 67 — 50 — 9 23 214 253 85 — 49 — 9 54 215 254 65 — 52 — 15 63 216 255 81 — 69 — 4 54 217 256 100 — 90 — 96 85 218 257 94 — 94 — 71 75 219 258 98 — 98 — 81 84 220 259 96 — 92 — 21 81 221 260 34 — 29 — −7 5 222 261 74 — 31 — 4 47 223 262 99 — 100 — 99 94 224 263 64 — 18 — 99 15 225 264 99 — 94 — 89 51 226 265 96 — 89 — 97 52 227 266 67 — 12 — 81 18 228 267 66 — 54 — 87 85 229 268 98 — 86 — 97 87 231 269 87 — 55 — 102 51 232 270 92 — 84 — 97 79 233 271 41 — 19 — 90 10 234 272 62 — 40 — 98 −1 235 273 94 — 100 — 46 85 236 274 98 — 99 — 97 94 237 275 93 — 98 — 101 72 238 276 99 — 96 — 81 86 239 277 100 — 98 — 98 103 240 278 88 — 91 — 69 79 241 279 75 — 70 — 90 53 242 280 83 — 86 — 56 20 243 281 103 — 96 — 78 93 244 282 100 — 94 — 102 91 245 283 101 — 90 — 88 71 246 284 103 — 93 — 101 75 247 285 52 — 45 — 67 44 430 286 79 — 74 — 56 10 248 287 50 — 74 — 25 48 249 288 82 — 72 — 99 56 250 289 85 — 64 — 100 41 255 291 1 — 1 — 7 0 256 292 45 — 12 — 60 27 257 293 30 — 32 — 6 50 258 294 102 — 98 — 97 84 293 320 94 — 107 — 92 91 294 332 80 — 53 — 92 48 295 333 55 — 73 — 32 39 296 334 103 — 109 — 76 14 297 338 104 — 112 — 103 94 287 341 11 — 3 — 2 2 288 342 14 — 4 — 1 6 289 343 8 — 5 — −7 −1 290 344 −6 — −6 — −1 31 291 345 43 — 56 — −1 40 292 346 26 — 26 — 5 57 433 347 90 — 99 — 70 — 434 348 96 — 88 — 62 62 435 349 100 — 99 — 92 72 436 350 94 — 101 — 84 — 437 351 98 — 100 — 100 — 443 357 45 — 53 — 18 11 444 358 49 — 67 — 0 6 445 359 56 — 74 — 22 12 446 360 64 — 52 — 13 22 447 361 89 — 81 — 80 78 448 362 88 — 92 — 100 92 449 363 79 — 47 — 49 26 450 364 38 — 45 — 24 44 301 365 99 — 102 — 50 72 298 367 91 — 106 — 75 85 299 368 92 — 96 — 76 71 300 369 72 — 105 — 52 63 302 370 79 — 99 — 79 78 312 384 96 — 92 — 107 98 313 385 67 — 69 — 19 69 314 386 62 — 64 — 13 58 315 387 98 — 98 — 105 89 316 388 99 — 98 — 106 83 317 389 78 — 78 — 25 79 318 390 92 — 93 — 76 70 319 391 84 — 86 — 35 87 320 392 94 — 94 — 98 80 321 393 95 — 69 — 13 75 322 394 94 — 79 — 36 81 323 395 95 — 32 — 105 60 324 396 −12 — 3 — 10 −15 325 397 102 — 95 — 100 95 326 398 97 — 31 — 97 52 327 399 100 — 57 — 16 70 328 400 89 — 19 — 96 61 329 401 66 — 47 — 89 69 330 402 79 — 44 — 101 69 331 403 25 — 16 — 59 2 332 404 85/99 — 50/65 — 101/105 55/67 333 405 91 — 78 — 99 74 334 406 93 — 75 — 103 73 335 407 96 — 92 — 57 47 336 408 7272 — 6969 — 49 93 337 409 97 — 97 — 64 69 338 410 92 — 92 — 54 72 339 411 61 — 17 — 63 28 340 412 92 — 50 — 101 82 341 413 94 — 87 — 37 73 342 414 80 — 30 — 103 75 343 415 97 — 99 — 105 98 344 416 101 — 99 — 16 71 345 417 94 — 95 — 57 64 346 418 33 — 29 — 20 15 347 419 73 — 45 — 15 70 348 420 90 — 76 — 17 39 349 421 74 — 81 — 61 17 350 422 67 — 40 — 93 56 351 423 52 — 31 — 2 20 352 424 84 — 93 — 16 54 353 425 59 — 43 — 15 38 354 426 87 — 60 — 59 74 355 427 18 — 4 — 64 12 356 428 94 — 81 — 82 79 357 429 41 — 48 — 50 91 358 430 96 — 80 — 3 59 359 431 78 — 82 — 75 60 360 432 84 — 68 — 77 33 361 433 21 — 8 — 55 23 363 435 93 — 94 — 3 76 364 436 70 — 66 — 12 81 365 437 8 — 6 — 10 −14 366 438 72 — 64 — 16 20 367 439 −5 — 2 — 14 11 368 440 −3 — 3 — 23 −3 369 441 97 — 87 — 28 98 370 442 50 — 33 — 82 34 371 443 10 — 14 — 59 13 372 444 17 — 19 — 72 3 373 445 8 — 6 — 56 −3 374 446 5 — −2 — 60 14 375 447 14 — 1 — 41 15 376 448 8 — 14 — 57 14 377 449 44 — 11 — 73 21 378 450 19 — −6 — 62 14 379 451 88 — 89 — 47 78 380 452 98 — 100 — 79 84 381 453 90 — 98 — 67 64 382 454 95 — 98 — 35 89 383 455 94 — 97 — 65 42 384 456 96 — 93 — 84 97 385 457 33 — 24 — 12 43 386 458 39 — 8 — 16 68 387 459 98 — 101 — 69 91 388 460 86 — 89 — 38 24 389 461 91 — 96 — 68 41 390 462 99 — 99 — 23 88 392 464 89 — 36 — 49 38 393 465 97 — 83 — 38 29 394 466 93 — 86 — 33 34 395 467 55 — 20 — 15 19 396 468 28 — 3 — 6 11 397 469 44 — 57 — 4 31 398 470 49 — 1 — 16 18 400 471 −2 — 3 — 5 1 401 472 82 — 75 — 53 68 402 473 96 — 55 — 38 45 403 474 103 — 98 — 81 98 404 475 98 — 100 — 54 — 405 476 97 — — — 27 67 407 478 99 — 104 — 56 — 415 486 98 — 103 — 33 10 416 487 100 — 101 — 21 28 417 488 94 — 97 — 44 7 418 489 96 — 85 — 37 40 419 490 99 — 95 — 66 55 420 491 99 — 103 — 94 92 421 492 98 — 100 — 89 77 422 493 97 — 96 — 49 69 423 494 99 — 97 — 26 36 424 495 91 — 77 — 65 45 425 496 103 — 100 — 25 13 426 497 34 — 10 — −9 25 427 498 79 — 69 — 22 41 430 499 79 — 66 — 30 0

Example B6 Determination of Serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT_(2A) or 5-HT₇ Agonist/Antagonist Activity of Compounds of the Invention

To determine for agonist or antagonist activity of compounds of the invention in functional assays, human recombinant serotonin 5-HT_(2A) receptor expressed in human embryonic kidney (HEK-293) cells (Jerman J C, Brough S J, Gager T, Wood M, Coldwell M C, Smart D and Middlemiss D N, Eur J Pharmacol, 414: 23-30, 2001) or human recombinant serotonin 5-HT₇ receptor expressed in CHO cells (Adham, et al. J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther. 287:508-514, 1998) was used. Cells were suspended in DMEM buffer, and distributed in microplates. For the 5-HT_(2A) assay, a cytoplasmic calcium fluorescent indicator which varies proportionally to the free cytosolic Ca²⁺ ion concentration was mixed with probenicid in HBSS buffer complemented with 20 mM Hepes (pH 7.4), added into each well and equilibrated with the cells for 30 min. at 37° C. followed by 30 min. at 22° C. For the 5-HT₇ assay, the reaction product was cAMP, detected by HTRF.

To measure 5-HT_(2A) agonist effects, compounds of the invention, reference agonist or HBSS buffer (basal control) was added to the cells and changes in fluorescence intensity were measured using a microplate reader. For stimulated control measurements, 5-HT at 100 nM was added in separate assay wells. The results are expressed as a percent of the control response to 100 nM 5-HT. The standard reference agonist was 5-HT, which was tested in each experiment at several concentrations to generate a concentration-response curve from which its EC₅₀ value was calculated.

To measure antagonist effects, the addition of the compounds of the invention, reference antagonist or HBSS buffer was followed by the addition of 3 nM 5-HT (5-HT_(2A)), 100 nM 5-HT (5-HT₇) or HBSS buffer (basal control) prior the fluorescence measurements. The results are expressed as a percent inhibition of the control response to 3 nM 5-HT. The standard reference antagonist was ketanserin (5-HT_(2A)) or mesulergine (5-HT₇), which was tested in each experiment at several concentrations to generate a concentration-response curve from which its IC₅₀ value was calculated. Compounds were screened at 3 μM or lower, using DMSO as vehicle. Assay results are presented in Table 11.

TABLE 11 5-HT_(2A) agonist/antagonist activity of compounds of the invention 5-HT_(2A) Agonist Antagonist Compound No. EC₅₀ (μM) IC₅₀ (μM) 83 3.1 0.97, >1.0 5-HT₇ Antagonist IC₅₀ (μM) 83 0.46, 0.77

Example B7 Determination of Serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT₆ Agonist/Antagonist Activity of Compounds of the Invention

To determine for agonist or antagonist activity of compounds of the invention in functional assays, human recombinant 5-HT₆ receptor is transfected in CHO cells (Kohen, R., Metcalf, M. A., Khan, N., Druck, T., Huebner, K., Lachowicz, J. E., Meltzer, H. Y., Sibley, D. R., Roth, B. L. And Hamblin, M. W. Cloning, characterization and chromosomal localization of a human 5-HT₆ serotonin receptor, J. Neurochem., 66: 47, 1996) and the activity of compounds of the invention is determined by measuring their effects on cAMP production using the Homogeneous Time Resolved Fluorescence (HTRF) detection method. Cells are suspended in HBSS buffer complemented with HEPES 20 mM (pH 7.4) and 500 μM IBMX, and then distributed in microplates and incubated for 45 min. at 37° C. in the absence (control) or presence of compounds of the invention or the reference agonist or antagonist.

For agonist determinations, stimulated control measurement, separate assay wells contain 10 μM 5-HT. Following incubation, the cells are lysed and the fluorescence acceptor (D2-labeled cAMP) and fluorescence donor (anti-cAMP antibody labeled with europium cryptate) are added. After 60 min. at room temperature, the fluorescence transfer is measured at lex=337 nm and lem=620 and 665 nm using a microplate reader. The cAMP concentration is determined by dividing the signal measured at 665 nm by that measured at 620 nm (ratio).

The results are expressed as a percent of the control response to 10 μM 5-HT. The standard reference agonist is 5-HT, which is tested in each experiment at several concentrations to generate a concentration-response curve from which its EC₅₀ value is calculated.

For antagonist determinations, the reference agonist 5-HT is added at a final concentration of 100 nM. For basal control measurements, separate assay wells do not contain 5-HT. Following 45 min. incubation at 37° C., the cells are lysed and the fluorescence acceptor (D₂-labeled cAMP) and fluorescence donor (anti-cAMP antibody labeled with europium cryptate) are added.

After 60 min. at room temperature, the fluorescence transfer is measured as mentioned above. The results are expressed as a percent inhibition of the control response to 100 nM 5-HT. The standard reference antagonist is methiothepin.

Example B8 Determination of Dopamine D_(2L) Antagonist Activity of Compounds

To determine for agonist or antagonist activity of compounds of the invention in functional assays, human recombinant dopamine D_(2L) receptor stably expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells (Senogles S E et al. J Biol Chem. 265(8): 4507, 1990) was used. Compounds of invention were pre-incubated with the membranes (0.1 mg/mL) and 10 mM GDP in modified HEPES buffer (20 mM HEPES, pH 7.4, 100 mM NaCl, 10 mM MgCl₂, 1 mM DTT, 1 mM EDTA) for 20 min. and Scintillation Proximity Assay (SPA) beads were added for another 60 min. at 30° C. The reaction was initiated by 0.3 nM [³⁵S]GTPγS for an additional 15 min. incubation period. Increase of [³⁵S]GTPγS binding by 50% or more (350%) relative to the 1 mM dopamine response by compounds of the invention indicates possible dopamine D_(2L) receptor agonist's activity. Inhibition of a 10 μM dopamine-induced increase of [³⁵S]GTPγS binding response by 50% or more (350%) by compounds of the invention indicated receptor antagonist activity. Compounds were screened at 3 μM or lower, using 0.4% DMSO as vehicle. Assay results are presented as the percent response of specific binding in Table 12.

TABLE 12 Dopamine D_(2L) antagonist activity of compounds of the invention D_(2L) GTPgS Compound 83 conc. (nM) % Inhibition 1 16 3 28 10 49 30 55 100 77

Example B9 Determination of Dopamine D_(2S) Antagonist Activity of Compounds of the Invention

To determine for agonist or antagonist activity of compounds of the invention in functional assays, human recombinant dopamine D_(2S) receptor stably expressed in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells (Gilliland S L and Alper R H. Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's Archives of Pharmacology. 361: 498, 2000) was used. Compounds of invention were pre-incubated with the membranes (0.05 mg/mL) and 3 μM GDP in modified HEPES buffer (20 mM HEPES, pH 7.4, 100 mM NaCl, 10 mM MgCl₂, 1 mM DTT, 1 mM EDTA) for 20 min. and Scintillation Proximity Assay (SPA) beads were then added for another 60 min. at 30° C. The reaction was initiated by 0.3 nM [³⁵S]GTPγS for an additional 30 min. incubation period. Increase of [³⁵S]GTPγS binding by 50 percent or more (350%) relative to the 100 μM dopamine response by compounds of the invention indicates possible dopamine D_(2S) receptor agonist's activity. Inhibition of a 3 μM dopamine-induced increase of [³⁵S]GTPγS binding response by 50 percent or more (350%) by compounds of the invention indicated receptor antagonist activity. Compounds were screened at 3 μM or lower, using 0.4% DMSO as vehicle. Assay results are presented as the percent response of specific binding in Table 13.

TABLE 13 Dopamine D_(2S) antagonist activity of compounds of the invention D_(2S) GTPgS Compound 83 conc. (nM) % Inhibition 1 15 3 45 10 56 30 74 100 91

Example B10 Determination for Agonist or Antagonist Activity of Compounds of the Invention in a Histamine H₁ Functional Assay

To determine for agonist or antagonist activity of compounds of the invention in functional assays, human recombinant Histamine H₁ receptor expressed in human embryonic kidney (HEK-293) cells (Miller, T. R., Witte, D. G., Ireland, L. M., Kang, C. H., Roch, J. M., Masters, J. N., Esbenshade, T. A And Hancock, A. A. J. Biomol. Screen., 4: 249-258, 1999) is used. Cells are suspended in DMEM buffer, and then distributed in microplates. A cytoplasmic calcium fluorescent indicator—which varies proportionally to the free cytosolic Ca²⁺ ion concentration—is mixed with probenicid in HBSS buffer complemented with 20 mM Hepes (pH 7.4) and is then added into each well and equilibrated with the cells for 30 min. at 37° C. and then for another 30 min. at 22° C. To measure agonist effects, compounds of the invention, reference agonist or HBSS buffer (basal control) are added to the cells and changes in fluorescence intensity are measured using a microplate reader. For stimulated control measurements, histamine at 10 μM is added in separate assay wells.

The results are expressed as a percent of the control response to 10 μM histamine. The standard reference agonist is histamine, which is tested in each experiment at several concentrations to generate a concentration-response curve from which its EC₅₀ value is calculated.

To measure antagonist effects, the addition of the compounds of the invention, reference antagonist or HBSS buffer is followed by the addition of 300 nM histamine or HBSS buffer (basal control) prior the fluorescence measurements. The results are expressed as percent inhibition of the control response to 300 nM histamine. The standard reference antagonist is ketanserin, which is tested in each experiment at several concentrations to generate a concentration-response curve from which its IC₅₀ value is calculated. Compounds are screened at 3 μM or lower, using DMSO as vehicle.

Example B11 Determination of Binding Activity of Compounds of the Invention at the 5-HT_(1B) Receptor with a Radioligand Binding Competition Assay

To determine the binding activity at the human recombinant serotonin 5-HT_(1B) receptor of compounds of the invention, CHO-K1 cell line expressing the human 5-HT_(1B) recombinant receptor was amplified to prepare membranes used for the radioligand binding assay throughout the study. Radioligand binding competition on 5-HT_(1B) was performed by adding successively in the wells of a 96 well plate (Master Block, Greiner, 786201). 50 μL of test compounds or reference ligand (5-HT, Sigma, H-9523) at increasing concentrations (diluted in binding buffer: 50 mM Tris pH 7.4, 12.5 mM MgCl₂, 0.1% Ascorbic Acid, 1 mM EDTA, pH 7.4), 25 μL [³H]5-CT (Amersham, TRK1038, diluted in assay buffer for a final concentration of 0.6 nM) and 25 μL 5-HT1B membrane extracts (7 μg/well). Non specific binding was determined by co-incubation with 200-fold excess of 5-HT. The plate was incubated 60 min at 25° C. in a water bath and then filtered over GF/B filters (Perkin Elmer, 6005177, presoaked in 0.5% PE1 for 2 h at room temperature) with a Filtration unit (Perkin Elmer). The filters were washed 3× with 0.5 mL of ice-cold washing buffer (50 mM Tris pH 7.4). 50 μL Microscint 20 (Packard) was added and the plate was incubated 15 min on an orbital shaker and then counted with a TopCount™ for 1 min/well.

On each day of experimentation and prior to the testing of compounds, the reference compound was tested at several concentrations in duplicate (n=2) to obtain a dose-response curve and an estimated IC₅₀ value. The reference value thus obtained for the test was compared to a historical value obtained from the same receptor and used to validate the experimental session. A session was considered as valid only if the reference value was found to be within a 0.5 logs interval from the historical value. For this 5-HT_(1B) assay, the reference compound 5-HT had an IC₅₀ of 2.63 nM (historical IC₅₀ of 4.7 nM). For replicate determinations, the maximum variability tolerated in the test was of +/−20% around the average of the replicates.

Compounds were tested for binding activity in the radioligand binding competition assay on human 5-HT_(1B) receptor, at one concentration 5 μM, in duplicate. Dose-response data from test compounds were analyzed with XLfit (IDBS) software using nonlinear regression applied to a sigmoidal dose-response model.

Assay results are presented as the percent binding average in Table 14.

TABLE 14 5-HT_(1B) radioligand binding activity of compounds of the invention 5-HT_(1B) (5 μM) % Binding relative to Compound No. bound radioligand 91 9 174 16 182 3 217 10 223 4 224 10 259 25 274 6 359 68

Compound No. 91 was retested in the 5-HT_(1B) radioligand binding competition assay at concentrations of 0.08, 0.31, 1.2, 4.9, 19.5, 78.1, 312.5, 1250, 20000 and 50000 nM, in duplicate. Dose-response data was analyzed with XLfit (IDBS) software using non-linear regression applied to a sigmoidal dose-response model. The assay results are presented as the percent binding average and IC₅₀ in Table 15.

TABLE 15 5-HT_(1B) radioligand competition binding assay Compound No. 91 % Binding relative Conc. (nM) to bound radioligand IC₅₀ 0.08 120 365 nM 0.31 138 1.2 132 5 129 20 113 78 103 313 66 1250 31 20000 1 50000 −5

Example B12 Functional Activity on Recombinant Dopamine D2L and Serotonin 5-HT2A Receptors Using Aequorin, cAMP and GTPγS Functional Assays

To study the functional activity of compounds of the invention on the human recombinant dopamine D_(2L) with Aequorin, GTPγS and cAMP functional assays and on the human recombinant serotonin 5-HT_(2A) receptor with Aequorin, CHO-K1 cell lines expressing D_(2L) or 5-HT_(2A) recombinant receptor, mitochondrial apoaequorin and Gα16 were used for the Aequorin assay. CHO-K1 cell line expressing the recombinant D_(2L) receptor was used for the cAMP assay and was amplified to prepare membranes used for the GTPγS assay.

Aequorin Assay Procedure: Aequorin dopamine D_(2L) (FAST-0101A) or serotonin 5-HT_(2A) (FAST-0505A) cells, grown 18 h prior to the test in media without antibiotics, were detached by gentle flushing with PBS-EDTA (5 mM EDTA), recovered by centrifugation and resuspended in “assay buffer” (DMEM/HAM's F12 with HEPES, without phenol red+0.1% BSA protease free). Cells were incubated at room temperature for at least 4 h with Coelenterazine h (Molecular Probes). Dose response curves with reference compounds were performed before testing the compounds of the invention. D_(2L) reference agonist and antagonist were quinpirol (Tocris, 1061) and haloperidol (Tocris, 0931), respectively. 5-HT_(2A) reference agonist and antagonist were α-methyt-5-HT (Sigma, M-110) and ketanserin (Tocris, 908), respectively. For agonist testing, 50 μL of cell suspension were injected on 50 μL of test compound or reference agonist plated in a 96-well plate. The resulting emission of light was recorded using the Hamamatsu Functional Drug Screening System 6000 (FDSS 6000). Following an incubation of 15 min after the first injection, 100 μL of reference agonist at a concentration corresponding to its EC₈₀ was injected on the 100 μL of the mixture of cell suspension and test compound, for antagonist testing. The resulting emission of light was recorded using the same luminometer as for agonist testing. To standardize the emission of recorded light (determination of the “100% signal”) across plates and across different experiments, some of the wells contained 100 μM digitonin or a saturating concentration of ATP (20 μM). Plates also contained the reference agonist at a concentration equivalent to the EC₁₀₀ and EC₈₀ obtained during the test validation. Compounds were tested for agonist & antagonist activity at the human dopamine D_(2L) receptor (FAST-0101A) and serotonin 5-HT_(2A) receptor (FAST-0505A) at the following nanomolar concentrations, in duplicate: Agonist (nM): 10, 30, 100, 300, 1000, 3000, 10000, 30000; Antagonist (nM): 5, 15, 50, 150, 500, 1500, 5000, 15000.

Results of agonist/antagonist activity at the D_(2L) receptor are presented in Table 16.

TABLE 16 Agonist/antagonist activity at the D_(2L) receptor. Agonist % Activation Concentration (nM) Compound No. 83 Compound No. 90 10 2.43 0.95 30 0.68 0.25 100 1.26 −0.23 300 0.92 −0.24 1000 −0.12 −0.48 3000 0.00 −1.20 10000 6.32 −0.78 30000 84.25 −0.92 Antagonist % Inhibition Concentration (nM) Compound No. 83 Compound No. 90 5 93.51 95.45 15 96.42 97.28 50 96.75 93.46 150 96.83 96.83 500 96.84 97.86 1500 95.95 97.19 5000 95.95 97.41 15000 92.35 96.07

Results of agonist/antagonist activity at the 5-HT_(2A) receptor are presented in Table 17.

TABLE 17 Agonist/antagonist activity at the 5-HT_(2A) receptor. Agonist % Activation Concentration (nM) Compound No. 83 Compound No. 90 10 0.70 0.62 30 0.55 0.26 100 0.85 0.27 300 0.58 0.18 1000 0.62 0.11 3000 0.31 0.04 10000 0.34 0.02 30000 1.24 0.49 Antagonist % Inhibition Concentration (nM) Compound No. 83 Compound No. 90 5 85.40 73.03 15 96.57 95.03 50 98.47 98.52 150 98.70 98.32 500 98.82 98.44 1500 98.89 98.43 5000 97.83 98.52 15000 97.05 97.61

cAMP Assay Procedure: D_(2L) CHO-K1 cells (FAST-0101C), grown to mid-log phase in culture media without antibiotics, were detached with PBS-EDTA (5 mM EDTA), centrifuged and resuspended in assay buffer (KRH, 1 mM IBMX) at a concentration of 2.1×10⁵ cells/mL. The test was performed in 96 well plates. For agonist testing, 12 μL of cells (2,500 cells/well) were mixed with 6 μL of increasing concentrations of test compound or reference agonist and 6 μL of Forskolin 10 μM final concentration (Calbiochem, cat no 344270). For antagonist testing, 12 μL of cells (2,500 cells/well) were mixed with 6 μL of test compound or reference antagonist at increasing concentrations. After incubation of 10 min at room temperature, 6 μL of a mix of Forskolin 10 μM final concentration and the reference agonist at a final concentration corresponding to the EC₈₀ were added. The plates were then incubated for 30 min at room temperature. During the incubation, the anti-cAMP cryptate antibody (K) and the cAMP-D2 (D2) were prepared according to the manufacturer specifications (HTRF kit from Cis-Bio International (cat no 62AM2 PEB). 12 μL of cAMP-D₂ solution followed by 12 μL of K solution were added to each well. The plate was then covered by a top-seal and incubated for at least 1 h at room temperature. The plate was then read on the Rubystar and data were analyzed by non-linear regression using a single site model. Compounds were tested for antagonist activity at the human dopamine D_(2L) receptor (FAST-0101C) at the following nanomolar concentrations, in duplicate: Antagonist (nM): 5, 15, 50, 150, 500, 1500, 5000, 15000.

Results of antagonist activity at the D_(2L) receptor are presented in Table 18.

TABLE 18 Antagonist activity at the D_(2L) receptor. Antagonist % Inhibition Concentration (nM) Compound No. 83 Compound No. 90 5 75.50 84.10 15 97.82 91.69 50 98.15 94.68 150 103.93 93.97 500 106.41 93.68 1500 106.91 100.03 5000 106.46 100.06 15000 110.66 102.18

GTPγS Assay Procedure: Assay buffer [20 mM HEPES pH 7.4; 100 mM NaCl, 10 μg/mL saponin, 30 mM MgCl₂]; Membranes [Recombinant CHO-K1-D_(2L) membrane extracts thawed on ice and diluted in assay buffer to give 1 mg/mL (10 μg/10 μL) and kept on ice]; GDP [diluted in assay buffer to give 3 μM final concentration]; Beads [PVT-WGA (Amersham, RPNQ0001), diluted in assay buffer at 25 mg/mL (0.25 mg/10 μL)]; GTPγ³⁵S [(PerkinElmer NEG030X), diluted in assay buffer to give 0.1 nM final concentration]; Ligand [Quinpirol (Tocris, 1061) as reference agonist and haloperidol (Tocris, 0931) as reference antagonist, diluted in assay buffer]. Membranes were mixed with GDP (volume:volume) and incubated for at least 15 min on ice. In parallel, GTPγ[³⁵S] was mixed with the beads (volume:volume) just before starting the reaction. For agonist testing, the following reagents are successively added in the wells of an Optiplate (Perkin Elmer): 50 μL of test or reference ligand, 20 μL of the membranes:GDP mix, 10 μL of assay buffer and 20 μL of the GTPγ[³⁵S]:beads mix. For antagonist testing, the following reagents were successively added in the wells of an Optiplate (Perkin Elmer): 50 μL of test or reference ligand, 20 μL of the membranes:GDP mix, and then after an incubation of 15 min at room temperature, 10 μL of reference agonist at historical EC₈₀ concentration and 20 μL of the GTPγ[³⁵S]:beads mix. The plates were covered with a top seal, mixed on an orbital shaker for 2 min, and then incubated for 1 h at room temperature. Then the plates were centrifuged for 10 min at 2000 rpm, incubated at room temperature 1 h and counted for 1 min/well with a Perkin Elmer TopCount reader. Compounds were tested for antagonist activity at the human dopamine D_(2L) receptor (FAST-0101G) at the following nanomolar concentrations, in duplicate: Antagonist (nM): 5, 15, 50, 150, 500, 1500, 5000, 15000.

Results of antagonist activity at the D_(2L) receptor are presented in Table 19.

TABLE 19 Antagonist activity at the D_(2L) receptor. Antagonist % Inhibition Concentration (nM) Compound No. 83 Compound No. 90 5 51.76 58.98 15 89.96 101.12 50 103.73 106.43 150 109.48 109.15 500 117.78 109.33 1500 113.47 116.02 5000 110.56 112.00 15000 104.55 116.26

Example B13 Increase of Neurite Outgrowth of Neurons that were Cultured with Compounds of the Invention Example B13-A Neurite Outgrowth in Cortical Neurons

Compounds are tested to determine their ability to stimulate neurite outgrowth of cortical neurons. Standard methods are used to isolate cortical neurons. For the isolation of primary rat cortical neurons, the fetal brain from a pregnant rat at 17 days of gestation is prepared in Leibovitz's medium (L15; Gibco). The cortex is dissected out, and the meninges are removed. Trypsin (Gibco) is used to dissociate cortical C with DNAse I. The cells are triturated for 30 min. with a pipette in Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Media (“DMEM”; Gibco) with 10% Fetal Bovine Serum (“FBS”) (Gibco) and centrifuged at 350×g for 10 min. at RT. The cells are suspended in Neurobasal medium supplemented with 2% B27 (Gibco) and 0.5 mM L-glutamine (Gibco). The cells are maintained at 30,000 cells per well of poly-L-lysine coated plates at 37° C. in 5% CO₂-95% air atmosphere. After adhesion, a vehicle control or compounds of the invention are added at different concentrations to the medium. BDNF (50 ng/mL) is used as a positive control for neurite growth. After treatment, cultures are washed in phosphate-buffered saline (“PBS”; Gibco) and fixed in glutaraldehyde 2.5% in PBS. Cells are fixed after 3 days growth. Several pictures (˜80) of cells with neurites are taken per condition with a camera. The length measurements are made by analysis of the pictures using software from Image-Pro Plus (France). The results are expressed as mean (s.e.m.). Statistical analysis of the data is performed using one way analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Neurite Outgrowth in Rat Mixed Cortical Cultures

Cortical mixed cultures are prepared from E18 Wistar rat embryos. The cortices are dissected out and the tissue was cut to small pieces. The cells are separated by 15-min. incubation with DNase and papain. The cells are collected by centrifugation (1500 rpm, 5 min.). The tissue is triturated with a pipette and the cells are plated using the micro-islet protocol (20 000 cells in 25 μl medium) on poly-L-lysine coated 48 wells, in MEM supplemented with 2 mM glutamine, 0.1 μg/mL gentamicin, 10% heat-inactivated fetal bovine serum (FBS-HI) and 10% heat-inactivated horse serum (HS-HI). After the cells had attached to the well, 250 μl medium is added to the wells. Four hours after plating the medium is changed to fresh medium (MEM with supplements and 5% HS-HI) containing test compound at 0.5, 5 and 50 nM concentrations. As positive controls BDNF (50, 100 and/or 150 ng/mL), and/or NGF (50 ng/mL and/or 100 ng/mL) are used. After 2 days in vitro, the cell's conditioned media are collected from plates before fixing the cells. The media samples are centrifuged 13 000 rpm 3 min. to get rid of cell debris. The samples are stored at −20° C. for later analysis. Cells are formaldehyde-fixed and processed for immunocytochemistry. BDNF levels in the conditioned media are determined with a BDNF ELISA using the manufacturers (Promega, BDNF Emax® ImmunoAssay System, catalog number: G7610) instructions.

The cultures are fixed with 4% formaldehyde in 0.01 M PBS for 30 min. and washed once with PBS. The fixed cells are first permeabilized and non-specific binding was blocked by a 30-min. incubation with blocking buffer containing 1% bovine serum albumin and 0.3% Triton X-100 in PBS. Rabbit anti-MAP-2 (dilution 1:1000, AB5622, Chemicon, in blocking buffer) is used as a primary antibody. The cells are incubated with the primary antibody for 48 h at +4° C., washed with PBS and incubated with secondary antibody goat anti-rabbit IgG conjugated to Alexa Fluor568 (1:200, A11036, Molecular Probes) for 2 h at RT. The immunopositive cells are visualized by a fluorescence microscope equipped with appropriate filter set, and documented by a high resolution image capturing. The number of cells per field (4 field per well) are counted, and the neurite outgrowth was quantified using Image Pro Plus software.

The number of wells per compound concentration used was 6 (n=6). All data are presented as mean±standard deviation (SD) or standard error of mean (SEM), and differences are considered to be statistically significant at the p<0.05 level. Statistical analysis is performed using StatsDirect statistical software. Differences between group means are analyzed by using 1-way-ANOVA followed by Dunnet's test (comparison to the vehicle treated group).

Example B13-B Neurite Outgrowth in Rat Mixed Cortical Cultures

Compounds of the invention were evaluated on their effect on neurite outgrowth in rat mixed neuronal cultures. The cultures were prepared on E18 Wistar rat embryos, and compounds of the invention as well as positive controls (BDNF and NGF) were introduced to the cultures 4 h after plating. Formalin-fixed cells were processed for immunocytochemistry using MAP-2 antibody with fluorescent secondary antibody. The neurite outgrowth was quantified using image analysis software, and the number of cells, the amount and length of neurites in untreated and treated cultures were analyzed.

The mixed cortical cultures were prepared from E18 Wistar rat embryos (National Animal Center, Kuopio, Finland). The cortices were dissected out and the tissue was cut to small pieces. The cells were separated by 15-min incubation with DNase and papain. The cells were collected by centrifugation (1500 rpm, 5 min). The tissue was triturated and the cells were plated on poly-L-lysine-coated 48-well plates in MEM supplemented with 2 g/L glucose, 2 mM glutamine, 10 μg/mL gentamicin, 10% HS-HI, and 10% heat-inactivated fetal bovine serum (FBS-HI), and maintained at +37° C., 5% CO₂/95% air. Four hours after plating, test Compound No. 83 (0.5, 5, 50 nM) and positive controls (BDNF at 50 ng/mL; NGF at 75 ng/mL) were pipetted on wells in MEM+supplements+5% HS-HI. Cells were incubated 48 h at +37° C., 5% CO₂/95% air. The cells were fixed with 4% formaldehyde and washed twice with PBS. Cells were incubated with primary MAP-2 antibody (Chemicon, 1:1000) overnight at +4° C. After wash, the cells were incubated with AlexaFluor568 goat anti-rabbit secondary antibody (Molecular Probes, 1:200) for 2 h at RT. After wash, the digital images were taken using Olympus IX71 microscope equipped with appropriate filter set. The cell number and amount and length of processes were analyzed using ImagePro Plus-software.

The number of wells per compound concentration used was 6 (n=6). The following concentration of Compound No. 83 was studied (0.5, 5, 50 nM). Statistical analysis was performed using StatsDirect statistical software. The values were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by Dunnet's test (comparison to the vehicle-treated group). Results were presented as mean+standard deviation (SD) and differences were considered to be statistically significant at the P<0.05 level. Results are shown in FIG. 14.

Mean Process+Branch Number: The number of process branches originating from main processes was analyzed and studied as mean process+branch number. Compound No. 83 at 50 nM significantly increased the number of branched processes, so did BDNF and NGF.

Example B14 Use of an In Vivo Model to Evaluate the Ability of Compounds to Enhance Cognition, Learning and Memory in Scopolamine Treated Rats Example B14-A

The two-trial object recognition paradigm developed by Ennaceur and Delacour in the rat was used as a model of episodic short term memory. Ennaceur, A., and Delacour, J. (1988), Behav. Brain Res. 31:47-59. The paradigm is based on spontaneous exploratory activity of rodents and does not involve rule learning or reinforcement. The novel object recognition paradigm is sensitive to the effects of ageing and cholinergic dysfunction. See, e.g., Scali, C., et al., (1994), Neurosci. Letts. 170:117-120; and Bartolini, L., et al., (1996), Biochem. Behav. 53:277-283.

Male Sprague-Dawley rats between six and seven weeks old, weighing between 220-300 grams are obtained from Centre d'Elevage (Rue Janvier, B. P. 55, Le Genest-Saint-Isle 53940, France). The animals are housed in groups of 2 to 4 in polypropylene cages (with a floor area of 1032 cm²) under standard conditions: at RT (22±2° C.), under a 12 h light/12 h dark cycle, with food and water provided ad libitum. Animals are permitted to acclimate to environmental conditions for at least 5 days before the experiment begins, and are numbered on their tails with indelible marker.

The experimental arena is a square wooden box (60 cm×60 cm×40 cm) painted dark blue, with 15 cm×15 cm black squares under a clear plexiglass floor. The arena and objects placed inside the arena are cleaned with water between each trial to eliminate any odor trails left by rats. The arena is placed in a dark room illuminated only by halogen lamps directed towards the ceiling in order to produce a uniformly dim light in the box of approximately 60 lux. The day before testing, animals are allowed to freely explore the experimental arena for three min. in the presence of two objects (habituation). Animals to be tested are placed in the experimental room at least 30 min. before testing.

Novel object recognition test is comprised of two trials separated by an interval of 120 min. or 24 hours. When agents that disrupt memory such as the cholinergic antagonist scopolamine are used an inter-trial interval of 120 min. is preferred. Alternatively a 24 hours inter-trial interval is used when studying effect of natural forgetting on novel object recognition task. During the first, or acquisition, trial (T₁), rats are placed in the arena, where two identical objects have been previously placed. The time required for each animal to complete 15 seconds of object exploration is determined, with a cut-off time of four min. Exploration is considered to be directing the nose at a distance less than 2 centimeters (“cm”) from the object and/or touching the object. During the second, or testing, trial (T₂), one of the objects presented in the first trial is replaced with an unknown or novel object, while the second, familiar object is left in place. Rats are placed back in the arena for three min., and exploration of both objects is determined. Locomotor activity of rats (number of times rats cross grid lines visible under the clear plexiglass floor) is scored for during T₁ and T₂. At the conclusion of the experiments, the rats are sacrificed by an overdose of pentobarbital given intraperitoneally.

The following parameters are measured as part of the novel object recognition task: (1) time required to achieve 15 seconds of object exploration during T₁; (2) locomotor activity during T₁ (number of crossed lines); (3) time spent in active exploration of the familiar object during T₂ (T_(Familiar)); (4) time spent in active exploration of the novel object during T₂ (T_(Novel)); and (5) locomotor activity during T₂ (number of crossed lines). The difference between time spent in active exploration of the novel object during T₂ and time spent in active exploration of the familiar object during T₂ (ΔT_(Novel)−T_(Familiar)) is evaluated. The % of animals in each group with T_(Novel)−T_(Familiar) greater than or equal to 5 seconds is also derived; described as % of good learners.

Animals not meeting a minimal level of object exploration are excluded from the study as having naturally low levels of spontaneous exploration. Thus, only rats exploring the objects for at least five seconds (T_(Novel)+T_(Familiar)>5 seconds) are included in the study.

Animals are randomly assigned to groups of 14. Compounds of the invention and controls are administered to animals the groups as follows: Solutions of compounds are prepared freshly each day at a concentration of 0.25 mg/mL using purified water or saline as vehicle. Donepezil, used as a positive control, and scopolamine are administered simultaneously in a single solution of saline (5 mL/kg) prepared freshly each day. Scopolamine is purchased from Sigma Chemical Co. (Catalog No. S-1875; St. Quentin Fallavier, France) is dissolved in saline to a concentration of 0.06 mg/mL.

Donepezil or its vehicle and scopolamine are administered intraperitoneally forty min. before the acquisition trial (T₁). Compounds or their vehicle are administered by gavage twenty-five min. before the acquisition trial (T₁), i.e., five min. after administration of scopolamine. The volume of administration is 5 mL/kg body weight for compounds administered intraperitoneally, and 10 mL/kg for compounds administered orally.

Recognition scores and % of good learners for compounds of the invention are determined.

Example B14-B

The two-trial object recognition paradigm developed by Ennaceur and Delacour in the rat was used as a model of episodic short term memory. Ennaceur, A., and Delacour, J. (1988), Behav. Brain Res. 31:47-59. The paradigm is based on spontaneous exploratory activity of rodents and does not involve rule learning or reinforcement. The novel object recognition paradigm is sensitive to the effects of ageing and cholinergic dysfunction. See, e.g., Scali, C., et al., (1994), Neurosci. Letts. 170:117-120; and Bartolini, L., et al., (1996), Biochem. Behav. 53:277-283.

The experiments were carried out using 174-186 male Sprague Dawley rats (Centre d'Elevage R. Janvier, B. P. 55, 53940 Le Genest-Saint-Isle, F.). 143-146 rats met inclusion criteria described in the experimental procedure. In addition, 24 satellite animals were used for pharmacokinetic analysis. The rats (main study and pharmacokinetic study) weighed between 233 and 283 g (6-7 weeks old) at the beginning of the experiments. The animals were housed in groups of 2-4 in polypropylene cages (floor area=1032 cm²) under standard conditions: room temperature (22±2° C.), hygrometry (55±10%), light/dark cycle (12 h/12 h), air replacement: 15-20 volumes/hour, water and food (SAFE A04) ad libitum. Rats were allowed to acclimate to environmental conditions for at least 5 days prior to experimentation. Rats were numbered by marking their tail with indelible markers.

Solutions of Compound No. 88 or 90 (concentrations of 0.003, 0.01, 0.03, 0.1, 0.3 and 1 mg/mL) were prepared in 5% PEG200 in water for injection as vehicle. Each solution was prepared fresh each day of dosing. Doses of Compound No. 88 or 90 are expressed as dihydrochloride salt. No corrective factor is required. Donepezil hydrochloride was dissolved in water for injection. The dose of donepezil is expressed as hydrochloride salt. PEG200 was dissolved in water for injection. The volume of administration was 10 mL/kg body weight for the oral route of administration and 5 mL/kg body weight for intraperitoneal route of administration. Each solution was prepared fresh each day of dosing.

The experimental arena is a square wooden box (60×60×40 cm) painted dark blue, with 15×15 cm black painted squares under a clear plexiglass floor. The arena and the objects were cleaned using water between each trial in order to avoid odour trails left by rats. The arena was placed in a dark room illuminated only by halogen lamps oriented towards the ceiling and giving an uniform dim light in the box (around 60 lux). Animals to be tested were placed in the experimental room at least 30 min before testing. The day before the test, rats were allowed to freely explore the box for 3 min in presence of 2 objects (habituation).

Rats were submitted to two trials spaced by an intertrial interval of 24 h. During the first trial (acquisition trial, T₁), rats were placed in the arena containing 2 identical objects and time required by each animal to complete 15 sec. of object exploration was determined with a cut-off time of 4 min. Exploration was considered to be directing the nose at a distance less than 2 cm from the object and/or touching the object. For the second trial (testing trial, T₂), one of the objects presented in the first trial was replaced by an unknown object (novel object), rats were placed back in the arena for 3 min and exploration of each object was determined. For both T₁ and T₂, locomotor activity of rats was scored. A criterion of minimal level of object exploration was used in the study to exclude animals with naturally low levels of spontaneous exploration: only animals having a minimal level of object exploration of 5 sec. during the testing trial (Novel+Familiar≧5 sec.) were included in the study.

Using group numbers of 18, rats were randomized to constitute the following groups: 1) Vehicle (5% PEG200 in water) p.o.; 2) Compound No. 88 or 90 (0.03 mg/kg) p.o.; 3. Compound No. 88 or 90 (0.1 mg/kg) p.o.; 4) Compound No. 88 or 90 (0.3 mg/kg), p.o.; 5) Compound No. 88 or 90 (1 mg/kg) p.o.; 6) Compound No. 88 or 90 (3 mg/kg) p.o.; 7) Compound No. 88 or 90 (10 mg/kg) p.o.; 8) Donepezil 1 mg/kg i.p. Vehicle, Compound No. 88 or 90 or donepezil was administered 30 min before T₁. The oral route of administration was used to evaluate the promnesiant effects of Compound No. 88 or 90 since it is the intended clinical route of administration.

The following parameters were measured: 1) Time required to achieve 15 sec. of object exploration on T₁ (sec.); 2) Locomotor activity on T₁ (number of crossed lines); 3) Time spent in active exploration of the familiar object on T₂ (sec.)=TF; 4) Time spent in active exploration of the novel object on T₂ (sec.)=TN; 5) Locomotor activity on T₂ (number of crossed lines).

All parameters were analyzed using SAS software (version 8.2). Statistical tests were performed with an alpha level of 0.05. The following parameters were calculated: 1) Delta (Δ=TN−TF) was calculated and represents the difference between the time spent in the active exploration of the novel object during T₂ (TN) and the time spent in active exploration of the familiar object during T₂ (TF); 2) Recognition index (RI) was calculated according to the following formula [(TN−TF)/(TN−TF)×100] and represents the difference between the time exploring the novel object and the time exploring the familiar object during T₂ expressed as a percentage of the total time exploring both objects during T₂. Tables presenting individual data as well as descriptive statistics (n, mean, SD, SEM, Min, median and max) by group and graphs of each group were performed. In addition, a graph presenting percentage of “good learners” during T₂ was performed. The animals were considered as “good learners” when they displayed as TN−TF value ≧5 sec.

For each experiment, time required to achieve 15 sec. of object exploration on T₁, locomotor activity on T₁, locomotor activity on T₂ and RI were analyzed as follows: 1) Comparison of vehicle versus donepezil using a two-sided Student's t test for independent samples; 2) Comparison of vehicle versus Compound No. 88 or 90 doses was performed using a one-way ANOVA (group). When group effect was found to be significant, a Dunnett's test was used to test each dose versus Vehicle.

For each experiment, the difference between time spent in active exploration of the novel object on T₂ (TN) and time spent in active exploration of the familiar object on T₂ (TF) (Δ=TN−TF) was evaluated and analyzed with: 1) Comparison of vehicle versus donepezil using a two-sided Student's t test for independent samples; 2) Comparison of vehicle versus Compound No. 88 or 90 doses using a one-way ANOVA (group). When group effect was found significant, a Dunnett's test was used to test each dose versus vehicle; 3) Intra-group analysis: study of Δ within each group using a two-sided Student's t test for paired samples.

Acquisition of the task (duration of T₁) was assessed by the time required by the animals to achieve 15 sec. of active object exploration. Memory performance was assessed by the evaluation of the time spent in active exploration of the novel (TN) and the familiar (TF) objects during T₂ (Δ=TN−TF) and the evaluation of the recognition index (RI) calculated according the following formula [(TN−TF)/(TN+TF)×100]. In addition, the percentage of animals displaying a N−F value ≧5 sec. in each experimental group was assessed during T₂, these animals being considered as “good learners”. Locomotor activity of animals was assessed by the mean number of lines crossed during T₁ and T₂. The acquisition trial (T₁) was performed until rats completed 15 sec. of active object exploration with a cut-off time of 4 min. Rats exceeding the cut-off time of 4 min. during T₁ were excluded from the study. In addition, a criterion of minimal level of object exploration was used in this study to exclude animals with low levels of exploration during T₂: only animals having a minimal level of object exploration of 5 sec. (TN+TF≧5 sec.) were included in the study.

The results of the effect of Compound No. 88 on Object exploration on T2 are shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. The results of the effect of Compound No. 90 on Object exploration on T2 are shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B.

The results demonstrated that, following a single oral administration, Compound No. 88 at 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3 and 10 mg/kg, and Compound No. 90 at 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1 and 3 mg/kg, displayed a cognitive enhancing activity in the rat model of two-trial object recognition memory task in situation of natural forgetting. More specifically, a single oral administration of Compound No. 88 at 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3 and 10 mg/kg, and Compound No. 90 at 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1 and 3 mg/kg, performed 30 min. before T₁, was able to delay the onset of natural forgetting. Donepezil (1 mg/kg, i.p.), used as a positive reference compound in the study, displayed a clear procognitive activity in these experimental conditions.

During the acquisition trial (T₁), animals submitted to the object recognition task had to explore both copies of the same object for a total of 15 sec. Thus, duration of T₁ depended on each individual. Significant modifications in duration of T₁ following treatment by a pharmacological agent could indicate effects of this agent on motivational and/or attentional components of the task. No statistically significant effects on duration of T₁ were observed for Compound No. 88 at 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3 and 10 mg/kg, and Compound No. 90 at 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1 and 3 mg/kg. So, in the present experimental conditions, Compound No. 88 at 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3 and 10 mg/kg, and Compound No. 90 at 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1 and 3 mg/kg did not alter motivational and/or attentional components of rat behaviour.

Evaluation of memory performance in this task corresponded to analysis of time spent with both categories of objects (novel and familiar) during T₂, recognition memory being assessed by the ability of the animals to discriminate between both objects. More precisely, memory performance was evaluated by the comparison between time spent exploring the novel object (TN) and time spent exploring the familiar one (TF) during the testing trial (Δ=TN−TF).

In experimental conditions of the study, evaluation of the natural forgetting situation corresponded to the analysis of object exploration during the testing trial using an ITI long enough for the rats to forget the value (novel versus familiar) of the objects. In the present experimental conditions (ITI=24 h), vehicle-treated rats displayed a low memory performance, exploring almost identically the novel and the familiar one, thus validating the experimental conditions of natural forgetting. When rats were administered with donepezil, these rats could discriminate between both objects, thus demonstrating a clear cognitive enhancing activity.

The effects of a single oral administration of Compound No. 88 or 90 (0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3 or 10 mg/kg) performed 30 min before T₁, on recognition memory were evaluated in a situation of natural forgetting. No conclusions concerning the procognitive activity of Compound No. 88 or 90 at 10 mg/kg could be drawn from the experiment due to the low number of included animals in this group (n=2) with most of the rats treated with Compound No. 88 or 90 which could not reach the inclusion criterion of the first trial and displaying a reduced locomotor activity. Results showed that memory performance of rats treated with Compound No. 88 at 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3 and 10 mg/kg, and Compound No. 90 at 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1 and 3 mg/kg was improved, as shown by the TN−TF and RI values, this effect reached the threshold of statistical significance when compared to vehicle for the doses of 0.1 (Compound No. 90), 0.3 (Compound No. 88) and 1 mg/kg (global comparison using a one-way ANOVA followed by a Dunnett's test). In addition, the number of rats displaying a good memory performance, i.e. “good learners” animals (Δ≧5 sec.) confirmed the cognitive enhancing activity of Compound No. 88 at 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3 and 10 mg/kg, and Compound No. 90 at 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1 and 3 mg/kg and donepezil. Maximal cognitive enhancing activity was observed after oral administration of Compound No. 88 at 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3 and 10 mg/kg, and Compound No. 90 at 0.1, 0.3 and 1 mg/kg.

Treatment with Compound No. 88 at 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3 and 10 mg/kg, or Compound No. 90 up to the dose of 3 mg/kg or donepezil (1 mg/kg) performed 30 min before T₁ had no statistically significant effects on locomotor activity assessed during T₁ and T₂. However, higher dose of Compound No. 90 (10 mg/kg) reduced locomotor activity.

It is concluded that, following a single oral administration, Compound No. 90 from 0.03 to 3 mg/kg displayed a clear cognitive enhancing activity in the two-trial object recognition task by delaying the onset of natural forgetting with a maximal efficacy obtained between 0.1 and 1 mg/kg. Compound No. 90 has been further shown to have activity when tested in the presence of scopolamine, at 0.3 mg/kg.

Example B15 Use of an In Vivo Model to Determine the Ability of Compounds to Treat, Prevent and/or Delay the Onset and/or the Development of Schizophrenia (Hyperactivity in PCP Treated Animals)

In vivo models of schizophrenia can be used to determine the ability of the compounds described herein to treat and/or prevent and/or delay the onset and/or the development of schizophrenia.

One exemplary model for testing the activity of one or more compounds described herein to treat and/or prevent and/or delay the onset and/or development of schizophrenia employs phencyclidine (PCP), which is administered to the animal (e.g., non-primate (rat) or primate (monkey)), resulting in dysfunctions similar to those seen in schizophrenic humans. See Jentsch et al., 1997, Science 277:953-955 and Piercey et al., 1988, Life Sci. 43(4):375-385). Standard experimental protocols may be employed in this or in other animal models. One protocol involves PCP-induced hyperactivity.

Male C57Bl/6J mice from Jackson Laboratories (Bar Harbor, Me.) were used. Mice were received at 6-weeks of age. Upon receipt, mice were assigned unique identification numbers (tail marked) and were group housed with 4 mice/cage in OPTIMICE ventilated cages. All animals remained housed in groups of four during the remainder of the study. All mice were acclimated to the colony room for at least two weeks prior to testing and were subsequently tested at an average age of 8 weeks of age. During the period of acclimation, mice were examined on a regular basis, handled, and weighed to assure adequate health and suitability. Animals were maintained on a 12 h/12 h light/dark cycle. The room temperature was maintained between 20 and 23° C. with a relative humidity maintained between 30% and 70%. Food and water were provided ad libitum for the duration of the study. In each test, animals were randomly assigned across treatment groups.

The following compounds were used for this study: 1) Compound Nos 83. 88, 90 (0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3, 10 & 30 mg/kg) was dissolved in 5% PEG-200 in sterile water and administered p.o. 30 min prior to PCP injection; 2) Clozapine (1.0 mg/kg) was dissolved in 10% DMSO and administered i.p. 30 min prior to phencyclidine (PCP) injection; 3) PCP (5.0 mg/kg) was dissolved in sterile water and administered i.p. immediately before the 60 min. test. All compounds were administered at a dose volume of 10 mL/kg.

The open filed (OF) test assesses locomotor behavior, i.e. to measure mouse locomotor activity at baseline and in response to pharmacological agents. The open field chambers are Plexiglas square chambers (27.3×27.3×20.3 cm; Med Associates Inc., St Albans, Vt.) surrounded by infrared photobeams (16×16×16) to measure horizontal and vertical activity. The analysis was configured to divide the open field into a center and periphery zone such that the infrared photobeams allow measurement of activity in the center and periphery of the field. Distance traveled was measured from horizontal beam breaks as the mouse moved whereas rearing activity was measured from vertical beam breaks. Mice (10 to 12 animals per treatment group) were brought to the activity experimental room for at least 1 h acclimation to the experimental room conditions prior to testing. Eight animals were tested in each run. Mice were administered vehicle (e.g., 10% DMSO or 5% PEG200 and 1% Tween 80), Compound No. 90, clozapine (positive control, 1 mg/kg ip) and placed in the OF chambers for 30 min. following which they were injected with either water or PCP and placed back in the OF chambers for a 60-min. session. At the end of each OF test session the OF chambers were thoroughly cleaned.

Data were analyzed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by post-hoc comparisons with Fisher Tests when appropriate. Baseline activity was measured during the first 30 min. of the test prior to PCP injection. PCP-induced activity was measured during the 60 min. following PCP injection. Statistical outliers that fell above or below 2 standard deviations from the mean were removed from the final analyses. An effect was considered significant if p<0.05.

Results: Total Distance Traveled (center+periphery): The time course for the effects of clozapine and Compound No. 88, 90 or 83 on total distance traveled in the OF over the 90 min. test are presented in FIGS. 1, 2 and 10A/B, respectively. ANOVA found a significant treatment effect in each case.

Total Rearing (center+periphery): The effects of clozapine and Compound No. 83 on total rearing over the 90 min. test is presented in FIGS. 11A/B/C/D. ANOVA found a significant treatment effect.

Example B16 Use of an In Vivo Model to Determine the Ability of Compounds to Treat, Prevent and/or Delay the Onset and/or the Development of Schizophrenia (Hyperactivity in Amphetamine Treated Animals)

Male mice (various strains e.g., C57Bl/6J) from appropriate supplier (for example Jackson Laboratories, Bar Harbor, Me.) were used. Mice typically were received at 6-weeks of age. Mice were acclimated to the colony room for at least two weeks prior to testing. During the period of acclimation, mice were examined on a regular basis, handled, and weighed to assure adequate health and suitability and maintained on a 12 h/12 h light/dark cycle. The room temperature was maintained between 20 and 23° C. with a relative humidity maintained between 30% and 70%. Food and water were provided ad libitum for the duration of the study. In each test, animals were randomly assigned between treatment groups.

The open field test (OF) was used to assess motor activity. The open field chambers were plexiglas square chambers (e.g., 27.3×27.3×20.3 cm; Med Associates Inc., St Albans, Vt.) surrounded by infrared photobeam sources (16×16×16). The enclosure was configured to split the open field into a center and periphery zone and the photocell beams were set to measure activity in the center and in the periphery of the OF chambers. Horizontal activity (distance traveled) and vertical activity (rearing) were measured from consecutive beam breaks.

On the day of testing, animals were brought to the experimental room for at least 1 h acclimation prior to start of treatment. Animals were administered with vehicle, haloperidol (positive control, 0.1 mg/kg ip) or compound of the invention and placed in the OF. The time of administration of test compound to each animal was recorded. Baseline activity was recorded for 30 min. following which mice received amphetamine (4 mg/kg) or water and were placed back in the OF chambers for a 60-min. session. At the end of each open field test session the OF chambers were thoroughly cleaned.

Typically ten to twelve mice were tested in each group. Test compound doses typically ranged from 0.01 mg/kg to 60 mg/kg.

Data were analyzed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by post-hoc comparisons with Fisher Tests when appropriate. Baseline activity was measured during the first 30 min. of the test prior to amphetamine injection. Amphetamine-induced activity was measured during the 60 min. following amphetamine injection. Statistical outliers that fell above or below 2 standard deviations from the mean were removed from the final analyses. An effect was considered significant if p<0.05. Total distance traveled and total rearing following amphetamine administration were compared between groups treated with compound and groups treated with vehicle and positive control haloperidol.

Results: Total Distance Traveled (center+periphery): The time course for the effects of amphetamine and Compound No. 83 on total distance traveled in the OF over the 90 min. test is presented in FIG. 12. ANOVA found a significant treatment effect.

Total Rearing (center+periphery): The effects of amphetamine and Compound No. 83 on total rearing over the 90 min. test is presented in FIGS. 13A/B. ANOVA found a significant treatment effect.

Example B17 Use of the In Vivo Conditioned Avoidance Response (CAR) Model to Determine the Ability of Compounds to Treat, Prevent and/or Delay the Onset and/or the Development of Schizophrenia Example B17-A

All currently approved antipsychotic agents (typical and atypical) are known to have the ability to selectively suppress conditioned avoidance response (CAR) behavior in the rat. This evidence makes CAR one of the primary tests to assess antipsychotic activity of novel compounds.

The effects of Compound Nos. 83, 88 and 90, at concentrations including 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3, 10 and 20 mg/kg, p.o., in the conditioned avoidance response model were assessed in the male Wistar rat. Risperidone (0.3 mg/kg, s.c.) was used in the present study as a positive reference compound.

For each testing session, animals were first placed for a 4-min. habituation period in a shuttlebox with an electrified grid floor. Then, rats were submitted to 30 trials spaced by intertribal intervals varying at random between 20 and 30 sec. Each trial consisted of a 10-sec. light stimulus (conditioned stimulus, CS) followed by a 10-sec. electric foot shock (unconditioned stimulus, US) in presence of the light presented in the compartment where the rat is located. If the animal moved to the other compartment during the initial 10-sec. of the trial, the light was terminated (no shock was delivered) and the response was recorded as an avoidance response. If the rat changed compartment during the foot shock, the light and the shock were terminated and the response was recorded as an unconditioned response. If the rat did not change compartment during the 10-sec. light period (CS) and during the 10-sec. shock+light period (US+CS), an escape failure was recorded. If a response was made during an intertrial interval, the response was recorded as an intertrial crossing. Training was performed 5 days per week with one session of 30 trials per day, until rats reached the performance criterion of 80% of avoidance response on at least two consecutive daily sessions. Once the performance criterion was reached, each animal was sequentially administered with vehicle (15% HPBCD, p.o.), Compound No. 83, 88 or 90 (0.1, 0.3, 1, 3, 10 and 20 mg/kg, p.o.) and risperidone (0.3 mg/kg, s.c.). A minimal wash-out period of 48 hours was allowed between 2 treatments. During the wash-out period, animals were trained until they recovered an avoidance performance of at least 80%.

Statistical analysis was performed using a Friedman two-way ANOVA by ranks followed by the Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-ranks test to test each dose of the test compound administered versus vehicle control treated rats.

Results summarizing the effect of Compound Nos. 83, 88 and 90 at varying concentrations on Avoidance Responses, are presented together in FIG. 9 as a percentage avoidance versus pretest. Individual Avoidance Response results based on Number of Events for Compound Nos. 83, 88 and 90 are presented in FIGS. 16, 17 and 18, respectively.

When compared to vehicle, risperidone (0.3 mg/kg, s.c.) significantly decreased the number of avoidance responses (−61% versus pretreatment), slightly but significantly increased the number of escape failures in 7/12 animals (4±1 escape failures versus 0±0 escape failures before treatment) and significantly decreased the number of intertrial crossings (−69% versus pretreatment), thus validating this experiment. When compared to vehicle, Compound Nos 83, 88 and 90 each significantly and dose-dependently decreased the number of avoidance responses versus pretreatment.

Example B18 An Animal Model of the Negative Symptoms of Schizophrenia: Subchronic PCP-Induced Social Interaction Deficits

Phencyclidine (PCP) administered to humans as well to experimental animals induces full-spectrum of schizophrenia symptoms, including negative symptoms and cognitive deficits. A major symptom of schizophrenia is considered to be social isolation/withdrawal as part of the cluster of negative symptoms. Subchronic treatment with PCP in rats leads to the development of clear signs of social withdrawal as measured by deficits in the interaction time with a cage intruder rat.

Male Sprague Dawley rats (˜150 g on arrival) from Harlan (Indiana) were used in this study. Upon receipt, rats were group housed in OPTI rats ventilated cages. Rats were housed in groups of 2-3/cage for the remainder of the study. During the period of acclimation, rats were examined on a regular basis, handled, and weighed to assure adequate health and suitability. Rats were maintained on a 12/12 light/dark cycle with the light on at 7:00 a.m. The room temperature was maintained between 20 and 23° C. with a relative humidity maintained between 30% and 70%. Chow and water were provided ad libitum for the duration of the study. Animals were randomly assigned across treatment groups and balanced by age. Animals were not disturbed between test days.

The following compounds were used. 1) Compound No. 88 or 90 (0.3, 1 and 3 mg/kg; p.o.) was dissolved in 3% Tween and PBS and administered 30 min prior to test; 2) PCP (2 mg/kg; s.c.) was dissolved in saline and administered twice daily for 5 days prior to test day; 3) Clozapine (2.5 mg/kg; i.p.) was dissolved in 5% PEG:5% Tween 80 in saline and administered 30 min. prior to test. All compounds were administered at a dose volume of 1 mL/kg.

For five days prior to test, rats were injected twice daily with either PCP (2 mg/kg; s.c) or saline (s.c). On day 6 and following a 30 min pretreatment with vehicle, clozapine or Compound No. 90, a pair of rats, unfamiliar to each other, receiving the same treatment were placed in a white plexiglas open field arena (24″×17″×8″) and allowed to interact with each other for 6 min. Social interactions (‘SI’) included: sniffing the other rat; grooming the other rat; climbing over or under or around the other rat; following the other rat; or exploring the ano-genital area of the other rat. Passive contact and aggressive contact were not considered a measure of social interaction. The time the rats spent interacting with each other during the 6 min test was recorded by a trained observer. The social interaction chambers were thoroughly cleaned between the different rats.

Data were analyzed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by post-hoc analysis (e.g., Fischer, Dunnett) when appropriate. An effect was considered significant if p<0.05.

The effects of Compound No. 88 on interaction time are shown in FIG. 5. One way ANOVA found a significant treatment effect. Chronic treatment with PCP significantly decreased social interaction time in rats. This effect was attenuated by pretreatment of the atypical antipsychotic clozapine as well as Compound No. 88 (0.3, 1 and 3 mg/kg).

Mild sedation in the home cage was seen at 3 mg/kg dose of Compound No. 90 during the 30 min pretreatment time. The effects of Compound No. 90 on interaction time are shown in FIG. 6. One way ANOVA found a significant treatment effect. Chronic treatment with PCP significantly decreased social interaction in rats. This effect was fully reversed by pretreatment with the atypical antipsychotic clozapine as well as Compound No. 90 (1 mg/kg). At 0.3 and 3 mg/kg, Compound No. 90, significantly attenuated the deficits in social interaction time induced by chronic administration of PCP. This effect however did not reach that of control levels suggesting partial reversal at these doses.

Example B19 An Animal Model of Extrapyramidal Syndrome (EPS): Measurement of Catalepsy in the Mouse Bar Test

Antipsychotic drugs are known to induce extrapyramidal syndrome (EPS) in animals and in humans. An animal model considered to be predictive of EPS is the mouse bar test, which measures cataleptic responses to pharmacological agents.

Male C57 BlI6J mice from Jackson Laboratories (Bar Harbor, Me.) were used. Mice were received at 6-weeks of age. Upon receipt, mice were assigned unique identification numbers (tail marked) and were group housed with 4 mice/cage in OptiMICE ventilated cages. All animals remained housed in groups of four during the remainder of the study. All mice were acclimated to the colony room for at least two weeks prior to testing and were subsequently tested at an average age of 8 weeks. During the period of acclimation, mice were examined on a regular basis, handled, and weighed to assure adequate health and suitability. Animals were maintained on a 12 h/12 h light/dark cycle. The room temperature was maintained between 20 and 23° C. with a relative humidity maintained between 30% and 70%. Chow and water were provided ad libitum for the duration of the study. In each test, animals were randomly assigned across treatment groups.

The following compounds were used for this study. 1) Compound No. 83, 88 or 90 (0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 3, 10, 30) was dissolved in 3% Tween in PBS and administered orally at a dose volume of 10 mL/kg; 2) Haloperidol (2 mg/kg) was dissolved in 10% DMSO and administered i.p. at a dose volume of 10 mL/kg.

The front paws of a mouse were placed on a horizontal metal bar raised 2″ above a Plexiglas platform and time was recorded for up to 30 seconds per trial. The test ended when the animal's front paws returned to the platform or after 30 seconds. The test was repeated three times and the average of the three trials was reported as the intensity index of catalepsy. Antipsychotic agents such as haloperidol cause rigidity as a side effect. Animals treated with haloperidol will hold on to the bar without moving for several minutes. Mice were brought to the activity experimental room for at least 1 h acclimation to the experimental room conditions prior to testing. Following injection of either vehicle, Compound No. 83, 88 or 90, or haloperidol, catalepsy was assessed at 3 time points: 30 min, 1 h, and 3 h. At the end of each trial, the apparatus was thoroughly cleaned with 70% ethanol.

Data were analyzed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by post-hoc comparisons with Fisher Tests when appropriate. An effect was considered significant if p<0.05.

The effects of Compound No. 83 on catalepsy are shown in FIG. 15. ANOVA found a significant treatment effect. Haloperidol (2 mg/kg) increased catalepsy in mice. Compound No. 83 (30 mg/kg) caused sedation. Mice displayed straub tail and remained in a flattened position for the duration of the study. Mice also showed brief episodes of tremors immediately following movement of their cages. When placed on the bar, mice would either fall asleep or were unable to hold on. Compound No. 83 (10 mg/kg) also caused sedation, but at lower levels. Straub tail was also displayed, but decreased by the 3 h time point.

The effects of Compound No. 88 on catalepsy are shown in FIG. 7. ANOVA found a significant treatment effect. Haloperidol (2 mg/kg) increased catalepsy in mice. Compound No. 88 (30 mg/kg) caused sedation. Mice remained in a flattened position for the duration of the study. When placed on the bar, mice would either fall asleep or were unable to hold on. No other effects of Compound No. 88 were observed.

The effects of Compound No. 90 on catalepsy are shown in FIG. 8. ANOVA found a significant treatment effect. Haloperidol (2 mg/kg) increased catalepsy in mice. Compound No. 90 (30 mg/kg) caused high levels of sedation. Mice displayed straub tail and remained in a flattened position for the duration of the study. Mice also showed brief episodes of tremors immediately following movement of their cages. When placed on the bar, mice would either fall asleep or were unable to hold on. Compound No. 90 (10 mg/kg) also caused sedation, but at lower levels, resulting in an increase in the latency to hold the bar. Straub tail was also displayed, but decreased by the 3 h time point.

Example B20 Use of the 5-Choice Serial Reaction Task to Determine the Ability of Compounds to Enhance Attention/Vigilance and Reduce Impulsivity

Attention and impulsivity are characteristic of several disease states. The continuous performance test (CPT), used in humans, is capable of detecting attention deficts in a number of disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, schizophrenia and mild cognitive impairment. The pre-clinical analogue of the CPT is the 5-choice serial reaction time task (5CSRTT). In this operant-based test, rats are required to be attentive and withhold responding while they monitor 5 apertures for the appearance of a brief stimulus light in one of the apertures. The brief illumination of the stimulus light in the 5 CRSTT is analogous to the appearance of the “correct” letters in the CPT in humans. Upon observing the stimulus light, the rat must nose-poke in the corresponding aperture to receive a food reward. The 5 CRSTT allows the measurement of similar behavioral responses as the CPT, including accuracy, speed of responding, impulsive and compulsive responding. In this study, drug tests were performed under altered test parameters which resulted in increased premature responding. This premature responding was hypothesized to indicate impulsivity, i.e., a failure to withhold an inappropriate response, and has been shown to be sensitive to atomoxetine.

Thirteen male Long-Evans rats (275-300 g) were obtained from Harlan Laboratories, Indianapolis, Ind. At the time of testing for the current study, the rats were approximately 16-18 months old. Upon arrival, the rats were assigned unique identification numbers (tail marked). Rats were single-housed in OptiRAT cages and acclimated for 7 days prior to commencing a food-restriction regimen: rats were held at 85% of age-matched free-feeding control bodyweights, receiving approximately 10-20 g of rat chow daily. Water was provided ad libitum, except during testing. Animals were maintained in a 12 h/12 h light/dark cycle (lights on at 0700 EST) with room temperature maintained at 22±2° C. and the relative humidity maintained at approximately 50%. All animals were examined, handled and weighed prior to initiation of the study to assure adequate health and suitability and to minimize non-specific stress associated with testing. The 5CSRTT sessions were performed during the animal's light cycle phase. All experiments and procedures were approved by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee of PsychoGenics, Inc.

The apparatus consisted of 10 aluminum and Plexiglas chambers with grid floors (width 31.5 cm, depth 25.0 cm, height 33.0 cm), housed in sound-attenuating cabinets. Each cabinet was fitted with a low-level noise extractor fan which also helped to mask external noise. The left wall of each chamber was concavely curved with 5 apertures evenly spaced, located approximately 2.5 cm from the floor. Each apelture contained a standard 3 W LED to serve as stimulus lights. The opposite wall contained a food magazine, located approximately 3.0 cm from the floor. Each chamber was illuminated with a 3 W house-light located in the center of the ceiling panel. After each test session the apparatus was cleaned with 70% ethanol.

The following compounds were used for this study. 1) Compound No. 90 was dissolved in saline, and administered p.o. at 0.1, 0.3 and 1.0 mg/kg, 30 min prior to testing at 1 mL/kg body weight; 2) The reference compound atomoxetine (1.0 mg/kg) was dissolved in saline and administered i.p. 30 min prior to testing at 1 mL/kg body weight.

Training:

Animals were trained to monitor the five apertures for stimulus light illumination. Each session was initiated by the illumination of the house light, and the delivery of a food reward into the magazine. The first trial began when the rat opened the magazine to obtain the food pellet. After the inter-trial interval (ITI) one of the stimulus lights was illuminated for 500 msec. The rat must nose-poke in the illuminated aperture either during or within 5 sec. of stimulus light illumination. Such a response was defined as a correct response, and was rewarded with delivery of a food pellet. Collection of the pellet initiated the next trial. A nose-poke response in a non-illuminated aperture (incorrect response) or a nose-poke after the 5 sec. limited hold (missed trial) resulted in termination of the trial with extinction of the house-light and imposition of a time-out period.

Testing:

After acquisition of the 5CSRTT with a high level of accuracy (at least 75% correct, at least 50 trials completed per session), drug testing began. Animals were treated with test compound (various doses, appropriate vehicle), vehicle and positive control (atomoxetine 1 mg/kg ip). During drug test sessions, the ITI was varied between 10, 7, 5 or 4 sec. in duration, presented in groups of 4 trials (each of which contained 1 trial at each ITI duration in a randomized order). The session ended when 60 min. had elapsed. All rats received all drug treatments, according to a randomized-order within-subjects design. Drug tests were performed on Wednesdays and Fridays of each week, only when rats have performed at least 75% correct trials for a minimum of 50 trials in the previous test session.

Measures obtained during the test sessions were: (1) percent correct, defined as the number of correct trials×100, divided by the total number of correct and incorrect trials, (2) missed trials, defined as responding beyond the 5 sec. limited hold or failing to respond, (3) correct latency, defined as the time taken to make a correct response after the illumination of the stimulus, (4) magazine latency, defined as the time taken to enter the magazine to collect the food pellet after making a correct response, (5) premature responding, defined as the total number of nose-poke responses made during the ITI, and (6) perseverative responding, defined as the total number of additional responses emitted after the initial nose-poke.

The results indicated that Compound No. 90 reduces impulsivity-like and perserverative-like behavior in rats in this test with a median effective dose of between 0.3 and 1.0 mg/kg p.o.

Example B21 An Animal Model to Test the Anxiolytic Effects of Compounds Using the Elevated Plus Maze (EPM) Test

This study aimed to test the anxiolytic properties of Compound No. 90 using the elevated plus maze (EPM) test in C57Bl/6J mice.

Male C57Bl/6J mice from Jackson Laboratories (Bar Harbor, Me.) were used for the open field study. Mice were received at 6-weeks of age. Upon receipt, mice were assigned unique identification numbers (tail marked) and were group housed with 4 mice/cage in OPTI mouse ventilated cages. All animals remained housed in groups of four during the remainder of the study. All mice were acclimated to the colony room for approximately 2 week prior to testing and were subsequently tested at an average age of 8 weeks of age. During the period of acclimation, mice and rats were examined on a regular basis, handled, and weighed to assure adequate health and suitability. Animals were maintained on a 12 h/12 h light/dark cycle. The room temperature was maintained between 20 and 23° C. with a relative humidity maintained between 30% and 70%. Chow and water were provided ad libitum for the duration of the study. In each test, animals were randomly assigned across treatment groups. All animals were euthanized after the completion of the study.

The following compounds were used for this study: 1) Compound No. 90 (0.03, 0.1, and 1 mg/kg) was dissolved in 5% PEG200/H₂O and administered orally at a dose volume of 10 mL/kg 30 min prior to test; 2) Diazepam (2.5 mg/kg) was dissolved in 45% hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin and administered orally at a dose volume of 10 mL/kg 30 min prior to test.

The elevated plus maze test assessed anxiety. The maze (Hamilton Kinder) consists of two closed arms (14.5 h×5 w×35 cm length) and two open arms (6 w×35 l cm) forming a cross, with a square center platform (6×6 cm). All visible surfaces are made of black acrylic. Each arm of the maze was placed on a support column 56 cm above the floor. Antistatic black vinyl curtains (7′ tall) surround the EPM to make a 5′×5″ enclosure. Animals were brought to acclimate to the experimental room at least 1 h before the test. Mice were placed in the center of the elevated plus maze facing the closed arm for a 5-min run. All animals were tested once. The time spent, distance traveled and entries in each arm were automatically recorded by the computer. The EPM was thoroughly cleaned after each mouse.

Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Fisher's LSD post hoc analysis when appropriate. An effect was considered significant if p<0.05.

Compound No. 90 did not exert any anxiolytic-like effect in the EPM test at any dose tested, compared to vehicle.

All references throughout, such as publications, patents, patent applications and published patent applications, are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

Although the foregoing invention has been described in some detail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity of understanding, it is apparent to those skilled in the art that certain minor changes and modifications will be practiced. Therefore, the description and examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A compound of the formula (V):

wherein: R¹ is H, hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, perhaloalkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl or carbonylalkylenealkoxy; each R^(2a) and R^(2b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(2a) and R^(2b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety; each R^(3a) and R^(3b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, nitro, substituted or unsubstituted amino, hydroxyl, alkoxy, acyloxy, acylamino, aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, heterocyclyl or R^(3a) and R^(3b) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety; each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is independently CH or CR⁴; each m and q is independently 0 or 1; each R⁴ is independently hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, carbonylalkoxy, thiol, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, carbonylalkylenealkoxy, alkylsulfonylamino or acyl; each R^(8a), R^(8b), R^(8C) and R^(8d) is independently H, hydroxyl, alkoxy, halo, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carboxy, carbonylalkoxy, or is taken together with a geminal R⁸ to form a moiety of the formula —OCH₂CH₂O—, or is taken together with the carbon to which it is attached and a geminal R⁸ to form a cycloalkyl moiety or a carbonyl moiety; each R^(10a) and R^(10b) is independently H, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, cyano, hydroxyl, alkoxy, nitro or R^(ma) and R^(uth) are taken together with the carbon to which they are attached to form a carbonyl moiety or a cycloalkyl moiety; each R¹¹ and R¹² is independently H, halo, alkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₃-C₈ cycloalkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, carboxy, or carbonylalkoxy and the

bond indicates the presence of either an E or Z double bond configuration; and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, alkoxy, acyloxy, substituted or unsubstituted amino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylalkoxy, cyano, alkynyl, carboxy, carbonylalkoxy or acylamino; provided that at least one of R¹¹ and R¹² is other than hydrogen; and provided that the compound is not selected from 5-((E)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 5-((Z)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole; or a salt thereof.
 2. The compound of claim 1 having the formula:

or a salt thereof.
 3. The compound of claim 1, wherein R¹¹ is H or C₁-C₄ alkyl and R¹² is halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, perhaloalkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, or C₁-C₈ alkoxy; or a salt thereof.
 4. The compound of claim 1, wherein each R⁴ is independently halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl or a substituted or unsubstituted aryl; or a salt thereof.
 5. The compound of claim 1, wherein Q is a substituted or unsubstituted pyridyl, phenyl, pyrimidinyl, pyrazinyl, imidazolyl, oxazolyl, oxadiazolyl, furanyl, pyrrolyl or thiophenyl group; or a salt thereof.
 6. The compound of claim 1, wherein each R⁴ is independently halo, unsubstituted or substituted alkyl, alkoxy, perhaloalkoxy, perhaloalkyl, substituted amino, or acyl; or a salt thereof.
 7. The compound of claim 1, wherein each R⁴ is independently F, Cl, I, CH₃, ethyl, tert-butyl methoxy, CF₃, trifluoromethoxy, isopropyl, cyclopropyl, —CO₂CH₃, —CO₂H, —CONHCH₃, —NHCH₃, —N(CH₃)₂, —NH(n-butyl), —NH(cyclobutyl), —NHCH₂CH₂OH, —N(CH₃)COCH₃, —NHCH₂CH₂OCH₃, pyrrolidin-1-yl, piperidin-1-yl, or N-methylpiperazin-4-yl; or a salt thereof.
 8. The compound of claim 7, wherein each R⁴ is independently CH₃, CF₃, Cl, F or —NHCH₃; or a salt thereof.
 9. The compound of claim 1, wherein R¹ is substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, perhaloalkyl or acyl; or a salt thereof.
 10. The compound of claim 9, wherein R¹ is CH₃, ethyl, cyclopropyl, tert-butyl, allyl, —CH₂CH₂F, —CH₂CHF₂, —CH₂CF₃, —CH₂CH₂OH, —CH₂CH₂CH₂OH, —CH₂CH₂Ph, —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₂OH, —CH₂COCH₃, —CH₂CH₂CH₂CO(4-F-phenyl), —CH₂CH₂CH₂CH(OH)(4-F-phenyl), —CO₂Bn, —CH₂CH₂C(—OCH₂CH₂O—)(4-F-phenyl), or —CH₂CH₂CH₂OCH₃; or a salt thereof.
 11. The compound of claim 10, wherein R¹ is CH₃, —CH₂CH₂F, —CH₂CF₃ or —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₂OH; or a salt thereof.
 12. The compound of claim 1, wherein R¹² is H, C₁-C₄ alkyl or C₁-C₄ perhaloalkyl; or a salt thereof.
 13. The compound of claim 1, wherein R¹ is substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, perhaloalkyl or acyl; each R⁴ is independently halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl substituted or unsubstituted amino, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl or a substituted or unsubstituted aryl; R¹¹ is H or C₁-C₄ alkyl; R¹² is halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, perhaloalkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, or C₁-C₈ alkoxy; and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted pyridyl, phenyl, pyrimidinyl, pyrazinyl, imidazolyl, oxazolyl, oxadiazolyl, furanyl, pyrrolyl or thiophenyl group; or a salt thereof.
 14. A compound of the formula (I-E):

wherein; R¹ is H, hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, perhaloalkyl, acyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl or carbonylalkylenealkoxy; each X⁷, X⁸, X⁹ and X¹⁰ is independently CH or CR⁴; each R⁴ is independently hydroxyl, nitro, cyano, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkynyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy, aryloxy, carboxyl, thiol, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl, thioalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, acylamino, aminoacyl, aminocarbonylamino, aminocarbonyloxy, aminosulfonyl, sulfonylamino, sulfonyl, carbonylalkylenealkoxy, alkylsulfonylamino or acyl; and Q is a substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl, substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclyl, substituted or unsubstituted amino, alkoxy, aminoacyl, acyloxy, carbonylalkoxy, aminocarbonylalkoxy or acylamino; provided that the compound is not selected from 5-((E)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 5-((Z)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole; or a salt thereof.
 15. The compound of claim 14, wherein X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH and X⁹ is CR⁴; or a salt thereof.
 16. The compound of claim 15, wherein X⁷, X⁸ and X¹⁰ are each CH and X⁹ is CR⁴ where R⁴ is a substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, halo, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkyl, or substituted or unsubstituted amino; or a salt thereof.
 17. The compound of claim 16, wherein R¹ is substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, or perhaloalkyl; or a salt thereof.
 18. The compound of claim 17, wherein R¹ is methyl, 2-fluoroethyl, 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl, or 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-but-1-yl, and R⁴ is CF₃, CH₃, F or Cl; or a salt thereof.
 19. The compound of claim 18, wherein Q is substituted aryl or substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl; or a salt thereof.
 20. The compound of claim 19, wherein Q is substituted phenyl, or substituted or unsubstituted pyridyl, or pyrimidyl; or a salt thereof.
 21. The compound of claim 20, wherein Q is 4-fluorophenyl, 4-methoxyphenyl, 3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl, pyridin-3-yl, pyridin-4-yl, 6-methylpyridin-3-yl, 6-trifluoromethylpyridin-3-yl, or pyrimidin-4-yl; or a salt thereof.
 22. A compound of the formula (J-1):

wherein; R¹ is substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl or perhaloalkyl; R⁴ is halo, trifluoromethyl, a C₁-C₈ unsubstituted alkyl or a substituted amino; R¹² is halo, substituted or unsubstituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted C₂-C₈ alkenyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl, perhaloalkyl, C₁-C₈ perhaloalkoxy, C₁-C₈ alkoxy; and Q is substituted or unsubstituted aryl, or substituted or unsubstituted heteroaryl; provided that the compound is not selected from 5-((E)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 5-((Z)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole; or a salt thereof.
 23. The compound of claim 22, wherein R¹ is methyl, 2-fluoroethyl, 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl, or 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-but-1-yl; R⁴ is CF₃, CH₃, F or Cl; R¹² is F, CH₃, ethyl, butyl, cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl, tert-butyl, CF₃, phenyl, pyridin-4-yl, —CH₂CO₂H, —CH₂CONHCH₃, or methoxy; and Q is 4-fluorophenyl, 4-methoxyphenyl, 3-fluoro-4-methoxyphenyl, pyridin-3-yl, pyridin-4-yl, 6-methylpyridin-3-yl, 6-trifluoromethylpyridin-3-yl, or pyrimidin-4-yl; or a salt thereof.
 24. A compound of formula (H-1) or (H-2):

wherein; R¹ is CH₃, —CH₂CH₂F, —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₂OH; R^(4a) is H or F; R^(4c) is H, CH₃, CF₃, Cl, F, CF₃, or —NHCH₃; R^(9b) is H or F; and R^(9c) is F, CF₃, OCH₃, —CONH(CH₃), or —CON(CH₃)₂; provided that the compound is not selected from 5-((E)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole and 5-((Z)-2-(4-fluorophenyl)prop-1-enyl)-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2,8-dimethyl-1H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole; or a salt thereof.
 25. The compound of claim 24, wherein R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; R^(4c) is CH₃, Cl, F or —NHCH₃; R^(9b) is H or F, and R^(9c) is F, OCH₃, —CONH(CH₃) or —CON(CH₃)₂; or a salt thereof.
 26. The compound of claim 24, wherein R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; R^(4c) is CH₃, Cl, F or —NHCH₃; R^(9b) is H, and R^(9c) is F or OCH₃; or a salt thereof.
 27. A compound of formula (H-3) or (H-4):

wherein; R¹ is CH₃, —CH₂CH₂F, —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₂OH; R^(4a) is H or F; and R^(4c) is H, CH₃, CF₃, Cl, F, or —NHCH₃; or a salt thereof.
 28. The compound of claim 27, wherein R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; and R^(4c) is CH₃, Cl, F or —NHCH₃; or a salt thereof.
 29. The compound of claim 27, wherein R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; and R^(4c) is CH₃, Cl, F; or a salt thereof.
 30. A compound of formula (H-5) or (H-6):

wherein; R¹ is CH₃, —CH₂CH₂F, —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₂OH; R^(4a) is H or F; R^(4c) is H, CH₃, CF₃, Cl, F, or —NHCH₃; and R⁹ is H, F, CH₃, CF₃, OCH₃, —CONH(CH₃), or —CON(CH₃)₂; or a salt thereof.
 31. The compound of claim 30, wherein R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; R^(4c) is CH₃, Cl, F or —NHCH₃; and R⁹ is H, F, or CH₃; or a salt thereof.
 32. The compound of claim 30, wherein R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; R^(4c) is CH₃, Cl, F; and R^(9c) is H or CH₃; or a salt thereof.
 33. A compound of formula (H-7) or (H-8):

wherein; R¹ is CH₃, —CH₂CH₂F, —CH₂CF₃, or —CH₂CH₂C(CH₃)₂OH; R^(4a) is H or F; and R^(4c) is H, CH₃, CF₃, Cl, F, or —NHCH₃; or a salt thereof.
 34. The compound of claim 33, wherein R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; and R^(4c) is CH₃, Cl, F or —NHCH₃; or a salt thereof.
 35. The compound of claim 33, wherein R¹ is CH₃; R^(4a) is H; and R^(4c) is CH₃, Cl, F; or a salt thereof.
 36. A compound, or a salt thereof, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of:


37. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a compound of claim 1 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient.
 38. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a compound of claim 14 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient.
 39. The compound of claim 1, or a salt thereof, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of:


40. The compound of claim 1, or a salt thereof, wherein the compound is selected from the group consisting of:


41. The compound of claim 1, or a salt thereof, wherein the compound is:


42. The compound of claim 1, or a salt thereof, wherein the compound is:


43. The compound of claim 1, or a salt thereof, wherein the compound is:


44. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a compound of claim 39 or a salt thereof, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient.
 45. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a compound of claim 40 or a salt thereof, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient.
 46. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a compound of claim 41 or a salt thereof, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient.
 47. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a compound of claim 42 or a salt thereof, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient.
 48. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a compound of claim 43 or a salt thereof, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient. 